Nonconformance

Nonconformance is broader than finished-goods defects. An incoming material below specification, a process condition out of range, a document that does not match reality — all are nonconformances.

The core of managing them is classification. Where it was found, what type it is and how it was dispositioned must be recorded on a consistent basis for aggregation and analysis to be possible later. Free-text notes accumulate volume and yield nothing readable.

Disposition is usually rework, repair, concession or scrap. Who made that call must be recorded too, or audit and complaint response become impossible.

• Register each case with coded values for process found, type and disposition.
• Aggregate occurrence trends by type to find recurring problems.
• Escalate significant cases into CAPA for cause analysis and prevention.

Everyday usage mixes them, but in a quality system nonconformance is the broader concept: it covers processes, documents and procedures failing requirements, not only product defects.