SPM has incorporated strict quality specifications for its products to meet its customers’ expectations. SPM has built a series of checkpoints into the production process i.e. from procurement of raw materials right up to finished goods stage. SPM follows specific AQL sampling plans to manage its product quality.

To be consistent with SPM’s emphasis in product quality, SPM also undertakes supplier audits based on two major criteria. These two major criteria are important to SPM because they impact SPM’s business directly. These criteria are:

• Suppliers must show that they have a good track record in delivery and product quality; and
• Suppliers must demonstrate their capabilities to respond to SPM and/or SPM’s customers in a timely manner. At the same time, they must be able to provide all the necessary services to SPM and/or SPM’s customers to address any arising issues.

The production setup of the SPM is divided into manufacturing cells, compared to the conventional production line-based setup of manufacturing plants. The benefits of cell-based production set up are as follows;

1. Ensuring focused accountability to manufacturing, quality and production capability within each cell. All information, errors and performance are easily contained, compared and identify areas for improvements.

2. Efficiency is increase, as each cell is dedicated to specific production capabilities and products.

3. Containment in terms of quality issues and other related matters that affects productivity. Through experience and continuous improvement programs, each cell can become highly efficient and knowledgeable.

4. Specific training to meet individual customer need can be provided that lead to accurately address them.

5. Availability of tooling, equipment, documents and raw material are contained and easily accessible by personnel within the perimeter of the cell, reducing the turnaround time and increases output.