Do Certifications Really Matter in Electronic Manufacturing?

If you want a quality experience and a quality end result from your electronic contract manufacturing (ECM) partnership, you should consider the certifications, registrations, and cybersecurity requirements relevant to your project. They may not all be required for every project, but the right credentials can provide insight into a manufacturer’s quality systems, processes, and ability to meet industry requirements.

A qualified ECM should have established processes for supplier management, component quality, production efficiency, testing, and continuous improvement. Understanding which certifications and other credentials matter for your industry can help you evaluate potential manufacturing partners and choose a company equipped to support your project from development through production.

wooden blocks with certification icons on them on a green background

Certifications Set Standards

The certifying organization sets the standards for the industry, and the certifications mean that the company has met or exceeded the standards. The most common certification for an ECM to hold is ISO 9001, which requires companies to find innovative solutions for cost reduction and quality concerns. An ISO 9001 certified partner is committed to meeting and exceeding the standards for customer satisfaction. The staff will work together in a positive culture, producing high-quality products with efficient delivery. ISO 9001 certification means that the company is using evidence-based practices based on data, analytics, and evaluation criteria, and has quality relationships with suppliers and vendors. Certifications are designed to push manufacturers to exceed customer expectations.

Certifications Ensure Quality Suppliers and Parts

Looking for a certified partner means that all the parts and components used will be of the highest quality. Counterfeit parts are a real concern in many industries, and ECMs and suppliers who do not hold certifications may not have the same standards for parts. When you look for an ECM who holds certifications, you won’t need to worry about researching and investigating the trustworthiness or reliability of suppliers, because the company is already committed to high standards for parts procurement.

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Obtaining Certifications Shows Rigor

Relevant certifications are not easy to obtain. Both management and employees of the organization must put forth a great deal of effort and commitment to achieve certifications. While this not only demonstrates that the organization meets and exceeds the standards of the certifying organization itself, it shows current and future clients that the company is committed to continuous improvement and a high degree of excellence. If you are going through a certification process, you are taking a thorough look at all your processes and procedures, and that means you are always putting in the maximum effort for your customers. Yearly audits ensure that the company is consistently focused on excellence.

Certifications, Registrations, and Cybersecurity Requirements

There are several well recognized certifications in the manufacturing industry. Some credentials, certifications, registrations, and cybersecurity requirements to consider include:

  •         AS9100 certified  – aerospace quality management system, providing greater part and product traceability through the design and manufacturing process.
  •         ISO9001 certified  – the most recognizable certification in the manufacturing industry, ensuring customer satisfaction.
  •         IPC and J Standard – workmanship certificates for soldering cables and circuit board assemblies.
  •         CMMC Level 2 – Levison Enterprises is currently working toward compliance with applicable CMMC Level 2 requirements for protecting Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI).
  •         ISO13485 certified  – international standard for medical device manufacturing.
  •         ITAR registration – registration with the U.S. Department of State’s Directorate of Defense Trade Controls (DDTC) for organizations subject to applicable ITAR requirements.

Using an ECM with certifications relevant to your project can make a big difference in the overall end product. When you choose a shop who has put the work into adopting the stringent quality processes required by the certifications, you know that you will be partnering with a shop with a strong focus on reliability and customer satisfaction. To learn more about how we can help you build a better device, contact Levison Enterprises for a quote.

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