Proposal of a process and tool for the management of quotations for a fiber optic assembly manufacturer

Abstract

The current process followed by a fiber optic assembly manufacturing company to quote its products fails to meet the expectations and requirements of both internal and external customers. There is poor document management, as well as problems regarding the flow of information used in the activities carried out in the Quoting department. This creates confusion and results in late deliveries for quotes. In addition to this, there is a lack of correct process measurement, so it is not possible to make a complete analysis. A new Quotation process is proposed as well as a management tool based on the PPAP practice contained within the APQP methodology. The objective is to increase the performance of the department's activities, improve the structure and organization of the knowledge generated during the Quotation process and obtain a platform for the collection of metrics for future process analysis. This will allow the company to meet customer expectations and perform analysis that allow continuous improvement of the process.