Quality Manual - Where the cross referenced procedures fit in?

[Denis]

Hi
I am in the process of reviewing our current Quality Manual, and would like some advice about the section where the cross referenced procedures fit in.

Basically, our documentation changes quite a bit, existing procedures are modified and upped a revision status ( but I don't find this a problem) . The interesting bit is the addition or removal of the procedures.

Now if you add (or remove ) a procedure then immediately your current version of the Quality Manual is out of date.

I would prefer to make a cross reference to the Documentation index within the Quality Manual , thus ensuring that at least this part of the manual is always up to date.

Any comments?

[RCBeyette]

I don't think what you're suggesting would pose much of a problem except from an auditor's standpoing (they love "one stop shopping"), but your system is supposed to work for you....if works well for you auditor, well, bonus.

I find it strange, however, that your removal of documentation from the system would impact your Quality Manual so frequently. Is it necessary for you to refer to every single piece of documentation at such a high level? In my opinion, it is not, but I'm curious to see if you do and why.

The Quality Manual at my organization refers to all Procedures required by the Standard (which, in turn, refer to the associated Work Instuctions), some forms where records are required (i.e., everything that refers to 4.2.4), and all Process Maps (to show interaction to the system map).

Our Procedures, Forms and Maps are not subject to frequent change so our Quality Manual is relatively stable.

[The Taz!]

Originally Posted by Denis

Hi
I would prefer to make a cross reference to the Documentation index within the Quality Manual , thus ensuring that at least this part of the manual is always up to date. Any comments?

Whatever work for YOU. . .

We reference procedures in the manual, but there is a disclaimer in the Forward that states, "All reference to documents is made to latest revision in effect except where stated"

QS-9000 will go away, so we reference QS-9000:1998.
TS-16949:2002 may change, so we reference TS-16949.

As far as procedures "disappearing" or "appearing". . . your idea for a reference list is good. . IMHO

[Claes Gefvenberg]

Originally Posted by RCBeyette

I find it strange, however, that your removal of documentation from the system would impact your Quality Manual so frequently. Is it necessary for you to refer to every single piece of documentation at such a high level? In my opinion, it is not, but I'm curious to see if you do and why.

I agree. Denis, do you list references to all your procedures in the manual? You don't have to do that. You can keep your procedures list elsewhere and have a reference to it in the manual.

Have a look at:

QMS - Quality Manual - My Boss Wants a 4 Page Manual - What to Do?
ISO 9001 Quality Manual Organization and Structure including Numbering
What is acceptable quality manual content?
How BIG is Your Quality Manual?
Help - Tips on updating Manual (1994 - 2000)

/Claes

[Denis]

Thanks for all the contributions, I just wanted some feedback from others on the subject.

I am going to reference the procedures to an external document and make the compliance and manual up to date.