AS9100 Why are The How To's Left Out?

AS9100 defines additional areas within an aerospace quality management system that must be addressed when implementing an ISO 9001:2000-based quality system. Typically, these requirements are included within strong aerospace quality systems. The industry experts who wrote the standard and the representatives who approved it all agree that these additions are essential to ensure product, process and service safety and quality.

Although the standard outlines industry "what’s" for a quality management system, the "how tos" were purposely left out and remain the responsibility of those developing the system within the organization. This reflects the AS9100 writing team's, and my, belief that providing a set of “how-to” information, stifles continuous improvement.

All quality systems must be designed to meet the specific needs of the users. And although AS9100 categorizes areas to address within the aerospace industry, system developers are encouraged to first establish a strong quality system that's both effective and efficient. This system should be a holistic unit with practices spanning multiple functions and processes within the business.