Manufacturing Deviation

Manufacturing Deviation is the data object that authorizes a temporary, bounded departure from released engineering or process specifications without changing the released configuration. Where an ECO permanently changes the design, a deviation says “for these specific units, we will accept this exception” — and is closed once the bounded quantity is consumed.

What it covers

• Scope — affected part numbers, the specification being departed from, and the reason.
• Bounding — by quantity, lot, serial range, or expiration date.
• Disposition — use-as-is, rework, scrap, or accept under deviation.
• Approval routing through quality, engineering, and (in regulated industries) the customer.
• Closure — automatic when the bounding condition is met; reportable to audit.

Relationships (see sidebar)

• Conforms to ISO 10007 configuration-management discipline (deviations are tracked configuration items).
• Supports Manufacturing Execution, Quality Management, and Change Management (ECO/ECN).
• Implemented by PLM/QMS platforms including Siemens Teamcenter, PTC Windchill, Aras Innovator, and PTC Arena.