The Essential Guide to Part Re-Identification

One of the most important decisions during the impact analysis of a change is the Part or Item Re-Identification decision. Why is that? Because it has a direct impact on the traceability of the change to your product, the cost of the change, and the risk you will be exposed to. When the part and its successor remain fully interchangeable after the change, the cost and risk of the change are limited. But if you made a wrong part re-identification decision, you run the risk that when something does go wrong, the cost of fixing the situation will be astronomical.


"Part Re-identification decisions are a balance between short-term gains and long-term risks. While you might be able to temporarily mitigate a problem today using short-term thinking, it requires a broader understanding of the problem and a long-term thinking approach to find a path to a sustainable solution that allows you to steer clear of the risks."


Often terms like Form, Fit, and Function are used to express when you need to issue a new part number, but Form, Fit, and Function are just a subset of the aspects that need to be considered. This book expands on the knowledge gained from the Part Re-Identification decision tree from the Institute of Process Excellence. It offers its readers in-depth background information to equip them with the necessary tools to make quality part re-identification decisions. Special cases and considerations are shared, and exercises are included. The ultimate goal is to empower organizations to optimize their processes, minimize risks, and streamline their supply chains for long-term success.