Not all Quality Management Systems (QMS) are created equal. While compliance with quality management standards ensures the foundational requirements for quality, there is a broad spectrum of rigour in how companies implement their QMS. The difference is mainly in how seriously companies commit to continual improvement.
Most companies do the minimum. For example, under the AS 9100D certification for aerospace and defence manufacturing, companies must complete a Process Effectiveness Assessment Report (PEAR) for every process. However, at Circuitwise we are embracing the concept of maturity models and we want to support our customers to do the same.
Maturity models help organizations strive for the highest level of optimization and operational excellence, moving toward perfection in quality. If you're an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) or product developer, understanding and applying maturity models can significantly enhance product quality, efficiency, reliability, and customer satisfaction.
This article explains the concept of maturity models and how they apply in manufacturing electronics products.
What are quality maturity models?
Maturity models provide a structured framework to evaluate the current state of processes and systems, offering clear pathways for improvement. While there are many QMS maturity models available, they typically assess organizations across several levels of sophistication:
Initial/Reactive: Processes are unstructured and inconsistent.
Managed: Basic processes are established but not fully optimized.
Defined: Standardized processes align with quality standards like ISO 9001 or AS9100.
Quantitatively Managed: Performance metrics and data analysis drive decision-making.
Optimized: Continuous improvement and innovation are embedded in the organizational culture.
Many famous maturity models, such as the Baldridge Performance Excellence Model, are broadly applicable across any industry. However, many industries develop their own models, and Circuitwise is exploring options relating to its core industries, including medical devices and aerospace. We look at one specific example below.
A maturity model for aerospace
The Aerospace Improvement Maturity Model (AIMM), developed by the International Aerospace Quality Group (IAQG), is specifically designed to help aerospace organizations move beyond compliance with the AS9100 family of standards. AIMM encourages organizations to:
Conduct self-assessments to evaluate the maturity of their QMS.
Focus on areas of improvement tailored to their business needs.
Set measurable targets to enhance process effectiveness and customer outcomes.
AIMM is organized into 26 modules spanning general management subjects such as leadership and communication, through to very specific subjects such as prevention of counterfeit parts. Each module addresses specific clauses of ISO 9001/AS9100. For example, Module 4 (shown below) focuses on understanding the Context of the Organization, helping businesses align their QMS with internal and external factors.
Each module uses a structured assessment to evaluate two critical dimensions:
Process Presence: Is the process clearly defined, documented, and implemented?
Process Effectiveness: Does the process deliver the intended results?
This dual approach mirrors the Process Effectiveness Assessment Report (PEAR), which is a cornerstone of AS9100 certification. Poor ratings in these areas indicate opportunities for targeted improvements.
The PEAR model
Circuitwise's approach to QMS maturity
At Circuitwise, we informally use AIMM principles as a baseline to optimize our QMS. By integrating these practices into our PDCA (Plan-Do-Check-Act) improvement cycle, we continuously refine our processes to meet and exceed industry expectations. This proactive approach differentiates us from competitors by:
Ensuring every process is not just compliant but effective and aligned with customer needs.
Driving continuous improvement through structured assessments.
Leveraging insights to minimize risks and maximize efficiency.
Start your quality maturity journey today
Whether you're new to quality systems and exploring ISO 9001/AS9100 certification or looking to enhance your existing QMS, maturity models like AIMM can provide the clarity and direction you need to succeed. At Circuitwise, we're here to guide and support your journey toward excellence in product quality. This commitment to refining our QMS to its fullest potential sets Circuitwise apart, ensuring we consistently deliver exceptional value to our OEM and product development partners.
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