Product phases

Abstract

This chapter discusses about the “product phases” procedure. The purpose of this procedure is to provide instructions and to assign responsibilities for defining the various phases that all products go through during their life cycle, from development to production. It explains the kinds and amounts of documentation that are required for each phase. The development phase is the first phase in the life cycle of a product. It continues until the product is developed to the point that it can be manufactured in small lots. During the development phase, sufficient feasibility is demonstrated to justify further development effort. There are few latitudes in the design to avoid restrictions on both engineering and manufacturing, which results in an unproducible or saleable product. Documentation requirements during the development phase states enough technical objectives for manufacturing to be able to produce the product with the aid of engineering. During the development phase, engineering has full control over product design and changes. The preproduction phase applies to products and parts which are under finalization of design by engineering and which are released to production in limited quantities. The production phase is entered only after the product and its design documentation are verified as adequate for producing unlimited quantities of the product.