Frequently Asked Question

Production-intent evidence

A pilot build evaluates the released design together with intended materials, tooling, work instructions, inspection, packaging, and trained personnel. Record yield, cycle time, deviations, rework, defects, capability, measurement results, open risks, and temporary concessions. Launch readiness is an evidence decision, not a calendar event.

Worked example

If 94 of 100 pilot units pass without rework, first-pass yield is 94%. Investigate the six failures by mode and station; a high aggregate yield can still conceal a critical recurring defect.

Engineering check

For Pilot Build and Launch Readiness, maintain traceability from requirement to risk, design output, evidence, and approval. Record the configuration, acceptance criterion, test or analysis conditions, open actions, and residual risk. A method is not complete when the document is filled in; it is complete when the evidence supports the decision and affected controls are updated.

Planning detail

Separate first-pass yield, rework yield, scrap, cycle time, downtime, and temporary concessions. Review failures by mode, station, material, tool, and shift rather than reporting only an aggregate percentage. The launch decision should identify remaining risks, containment, owners, due dates, training status, supplier readiness, and the configuration that was actually built.

Planning detail

Separate first-pass yield, rework yield, scrap, cycle time, downtime, and temporary concessions. Review failures by mode, station, material, tool, and shift rather than reporting only an aggregate percentage. The launch decision should identify remaining risks, containment, owners, due dates, training status, supplier readiness, and the configuration that was actually built.