CQI-11 Assessment

Q. Recently our company was asked when we will implement the CQI-11 Plating System Assessment Program.

Before we can do anything we must find out what it is. Do you have any information on this program? N.P.

 

A. Good question! When I received your e-mail I had the same response: what is it? Very frankly, I had not heard of this program. After doing some research and discussing the program with a few individuals, I can now give you some information that hopefully will get you pointed in the right direction.

The CQI-11 Plating System Assessment program was developed by the Automotive Industry Action Group (AIAG; www.aiag.org). Made up of OEMs and suppliers involved in the automotive industry, AIAG focuses on addressing and resolving issues that affect the automotive supply chain. As part of that, the organization develops standards, guidelines, etc. for better performance of a given process.

Electroplating plays an important role in auto manufacturing and at times can cause major headaches for manufacturers and vendors. This ongoing problem is addressed in the CQI-11 document, “Special Process: Plating System Assessment,” which was issued in June, 2007. The description of the document on the AIAG website states: “The goal of the publication is the development of a plating management system that provides for continual improvement, emphasizing defect prevention and the reduction of variation and waste in the supply chain.”

The CQI-11 document includes instructions on how to go about performing the assessment and audits. Worksheets are included in the document. A copy of the complete document can be purchased at the AIAG website.
I have had the opportunity to review the document and think it offers an excellent outline of the various steps and procedures every modern plating shop should follow.