Frequently Asked Questions: Engineering Change Order
What is an engineering change order?
An engineering change order (ECO) is documentation used to implement changes to a new or existing product design. ECOs describe the change, and list the items, assemblies and documents that need to change as well, including any necessary drawings, procedure updates, etc.
An engineering change order is derived from an engineering change request (ECR), which explores the necessity and feasibility of the change, identifies parts, components and documentation affected, estimates cost of change and lists resources required to make the change.
An engineering change notice (ECN) is sent to affected stakeholders to let them know that an ECO was approved and changes can be implemented.
When should you initiate an engineering change order?
Engineering change orders are generally initiated when there is a change to product design due to:
- Change in materials
- Need for lower production costs
- Product performance
- Customer requirements
What are the benefits of using engineering change orders?
An ECO is a proven way to map out all aspects of a product change, reducing potential design, manufacturing and inventory errors. ECOs keep changes on track and communicate changes to affected stakeholders, including staff, suppliers and manufacturers. This helps to avoid miscommunication that could lead to delays, waste and production errors.
What is the engineering change process?
Once an issue is identified, an ECR is created and sent for review and discussion. Modifications are made as needed, and an ECO is created. The ECO is sent to a change control board made up of all internal and external stakeholders. Once the ECO is approved, notification is made that the ECO can be implemented.
How can QT9 QMS engineering change order module help your business?
QT9 QMS is built to address data-heavy processes like engineering changes, streamlining and centralizing ECOs, while also providing built-in tracking and traceability for regulatory compliance. Documents are easily created and routed for approval, with electronic reminders and compliant e-signature approvals for your team as well as customers and suppliers.
QT9 QMS includes more than 25 standard modules that connect to provide simplified quality management end-to-end. QT9 QMS software is a highly rated, affordable, easy-to-use quality management system that excels at all of the processes that go into providing high-quality goods and services that are FDA and ISO compliant.
With QT9 QMS you get unlimited scalability and traceability at a great price, so you can bring quality products and services to market in the most efficient way.
