Core Processes - Are Core Processes really needed in the quality manual

[Intesar]

hi,


do i need to write the core processes in the quality manual?

and if it is really needed ...what is the purpose? where should i write it?

thanks..

 

[Helmut Jilling]

Re: core process.. is it really needed in the quality manual

hi,


do i need to write the core processes in the quality manual?

and if it is really needed ...what is the purpose? where should i write it?

thanks..

The ISO standard requires you to define ALL your processes, not just the core ones (see the NOTE at the bottom of cl 4.1, and cl 5.1.1 emphasizes that you should include the supporting processes as well). It does not say where in the quality system you need to document them. Cl. 4.2.2.c further mentions that it has to be documented somewhere in the quality system.

The manual is a good place, and commonly the place, but that is up to your team to decide.

I often suggest listing them in the QMS, usually in a high level diagram that shows the sequence and interaction. I also recommend supporting that by doing one procedure for each process, to define and describe whatever you feel should be documented.

 

[AndyN]

hi,


do i need to write the core processes in the quality manual?

and if it is really needed ...what is the purpose? where should i write it?

thanks..

If you:-

* Want to make the QM useful, and/or
* Want to be in compliance with ISO 9001 (defining the process sequence and interaction)
* Want to be registered to ISO 9001
* Want to communicate to your customers and employees what it is you do...

Of course it depends on what you call a 'core' process..........

 

[Avraham Harris]

The "key" to understanding the need for Core processes seems to be that those are the processes for which a company shall define KPIs.

That being clear to me now, I have the following question: is there any truth to the claim that core processes are those that are defined within the certification scope?

 

[Helmut Jilling]

The "key" to understanding the need for Core processes seems to be that those are the processes for which a company shall define KPIs.

That being clear to me now, I have the following question: is there any truth to the claim that core processes are those that are defined within the certification scope?

I would disagree with your conclusions.... core processes are essentially those which make product move toward the customer. (Sales, Design, Engineering, Purchasing, Manufacturing, warehousing, shipping...) Other processes are supporting or administrative- management, training, quality, maintenance, etc...

ALL processes are supposed to be measured or monitored for effectiveness and efficiency, not just your “core processes.” That is a frequent finding in audits. The supporting processes are to be measured as well. Frankly, they are often the ones where ineffective performance comes from, and impacts the main processes.