Archives Glossary Terms

CNC Machining (Computer Numerical Control Machining)

CNC Machining (Computer Numerical Control Machining) is a manufacturing process in which machine tools such as mills, lathes, and grinders are operated using programmed digital instructions rather than manual control, enabling highly accurate, repeatable, and consistent production of components. In…

APQP – Advanced Product Quality Planning

APQP (Advanced Product Quality Planning) is a structured, proactive approach to planning and controlling product and process development to ensure quality, safety, and conformity are built in from the outset. In an aerospace and AS9100 context, APQP focuses on early…

DOE – Design of Experiments

A systematic approach to experimenting with multiple process variables simultaneously to understand cause-and-effect relationships and optimise performance. In aerospace, DOE is used to control complex, highly coupled processes where trial-and-error is neither efficient nor acceptable. See also AS9100 and AS9120…

ERP – Enterprise Resource Planning

An integrated business management system that consolidates data across functions such as production, quality, supply chain, finance, and maintenance. ERP-integrated process monitoring means quality and process data are directly linked to production orders, materials, and traceability records.

MSA – Measurement System Analysis

A structured evaluation of the accuracy, precision, repeatability, and reproducibility of measurement systems. Advanced MSA goes beyond basic Gauge R&R to include bias, linearity, and stability—essential where tolerances are tight and inspection data drives acceptance decisions. See also AS9100 and…

SPC – Statistical Process Control

A method of monitoring and controlling processes using statistical techniques (such as control charts) to ensure they remain stable, capable, and predictable over time. In aerospace, SPC is critical for early detection of process drift before nonconforming product is produced.…

GDP (Good Distribution Practice): Pharmaceutical

GDP (Good Distribution Practice): A set of guidelines that ensures the proper storage, transportation, and distribution of pharmaceutical products to maintain their quality and integrity. See also: GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice) API (Active Pharmaceutical Ingredient) United Kingdom: The Human Medicines…

Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP): Pharmaceuticals

Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) in the context of pharmaceuticals refers to a set of regulations, guidelines, and principles that ensure the consistent production of pharmaceutical products, including Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs), to the required quality standards. GMP ensures that medicines…

API (Active Pharmaceutical Ingredient)

API (Active Pharmaceutical Ingredient): The biologically active component in a pharmaceutical drug responsible for its therapeutic effect. API Legislation in the United Kingdom: UK Good Manufacturing Practice (UK GMP) – Ensures APIs are manufactured to the highest standards of quality…

IC – Incidence Rate

In the market research industry, the incidence rate refers to the percentage of individuals within a specific population who meet the criteria required to participate in a survey or study. It is a key metric used to assess the feasibility…