Illustrative machined components beside a measurement fixture

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Project Milestones & Lifecycle Gates

A clear sequence connects the first drawing review to recurring production. The applicable stages, evidence, owners and timing are agreed for each project.

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Starting point
Drawing and requirements
Review
Process and proposal scoped to the part
Samples
Checks agreed before review
Release
Approval conditions defined by project
Timing
Confirmed in the quotation

Agree the checkpoints before work begins

A manufacturing plan is easier to follow when each stage has a clear question to answer, evidence to review and decision owner.

The sequence below is a starting point. The quotation and project plan define which gates apply, what records are included and who approves the next step.

Six stages from review to expansion

The route adapts to the part, process and customer requirements. Some stages may be combined or omitted by agreement.

  1. Illustrative machined parts and a measurement fixture 01

    Review and proposal

    Review the drawing, requirements and likely production route. The proposal records scope, open questions, assumptions, deliverables and quoted timing.

    • Drawing review
    • Scope and quote
  2. Illustrative prototype brackets beside a housing during a fit check 02

    Prototype

    Where useful, make samples through an agreed route to assess fit, form, function, material or finish. Sample quantity and review criteria are defined for the project.

    • Sample route
    • Review criteria
  3. Illustrative CMM probe inspecting a sample for first article review 03

    First article inspection

    When included in scope, inspect initial production-intent parts against the agreed drawing characteristics and acceptance criteria. The report contents and approval role are confirmed for the project.

    • FAI if scoped
    • Results for review
  4. Illustrative pilot batch of machined housings arranged on a workbench 04

    Pilot run

    A pilot quantity can be used to review the selected production route, inspection approach and packaging. Findings and open actions inform the next release decision.

    • Run review
    • Open actions
  5. Illustrative production work area with parts arranged for inspection 05

    Serial release

    Recurring production can proceed when the agreed release conditions are met. The current drawing revision, inspection scope, order quantity and delivery plan are confirmed.

    • Release conditions
    • Current revision
  6. Illustrative engineering workbench with a drawing and unmarked metal components 06

    Program expansion

    Related parts, processes or assembly steps can be assessed as demand develops. Each addition is reviewed for scope, capability, capacity, records and commercial terms.

    • Related scope
    • Revised proposal

Five steps to manage each gate

Use the same practical sequence at each applicable milestone, with responsibilities and approvals agreed for the project.

  1. 01

    Define the gate

    Record the question to answer, requirements, owner and decision needed to proceed.

  2. 02

    Agree the evidence

    Set the sample, inspection, test or document scope and acceptance criteria where applicable.

  3. 03

    Complete the work

    Carry out the agreed review or build and keep the applicable drawing revision visible.

  4. 04

    Review findings

    Share results, identify open actions and record any requested changes or decisions.

  5. 05

    Confirm the next step

    Document the release decision, remaining conditions and updated plan before moving forward.

Scope varies by project

A straightforward repeat part may need fewer checkpoints than a new design, tooling program or regulated application. Required samples, records and approvals are agreed in the project scope.

Plan your next manufacturing project

Share the drawing, requirements, target quantities and requested records to discuss a suitable project route.

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