Engineering Change Request (ECR)

Engineering Change Request (ECR) Template

This template outlines the process for requesting, evaluating, and implementing changes to product designs. Follow the instructions below to complete each section of the ECR.

1. ECR Details

• ECR Number: [Unique identifier for the change request]
• Title: [Brief description of the change]
• Originator: [Name of the person requesting the change]
• Date Submitted: [Date the ECR is created]
• Priority: [High, Medium, Low]
• Target Release: [Product version or release for implementing the change]

2. Description of Change

Provide a detailed description of the proposed change, including: - Current design or process - Proposed change - Rationale behind the change - Expected benefits

Example:

The current design uses a plastic enclosure that is prone to cracking under impact. We propose switching to a more durable aluminum enclosure to improve product reliability and customer satisfaction. This change is expected to reduce warranty claims and increase customer loyalty.

3. Impact Assessment

Evaluate the potential impact of the change on various aspects of the product and business:

• Scope: [What areas of the product or project are affected?]
• Schedule: [How will the change affect the project timeline?]
• Cost: [What are the estimated costs associated with implementing the change?]
• Quality: [How will the change impact product quality and performance?]
• Resources: [What resources (personnel, equipment, etc.) are required to implement the change?]
• Other Considerations: [Any other relevant factors, such as regulatory compliance, customer impact, etc.]

Example:

• Scope: The change affects the product enclosure and assembly process.
• Schedule: Implementing the change will require a 2-week design phase and a 4-week validation phase, delaying the release by 6 weeks.
• Cost: The aluminum enclosure is estimated to increase the unit cost by $5, resulting in a total cost increase of $50,000 for the initial production run of 10,000 units.
• Quality: The aluminum enclosure is expected to improve product durability and reduce warranty claims by 30%.
• Resources: The change requires the involvement of the mechanical engineering team, procurement, and the assembly line.
• Other Considerations: The change may require updating product certifications and informing customers of the design update.

4. Implementation Plan

Outline the steps required to implement the change, including: 1. Design updates 2. Prototyping and testing 3. Manufacturing and assembly changes 4. Documentation and training 5. Release and deployment

Assign responsibilities and set target completion dates for each step.

Example:

1. Design updates - Mechanical engineering team (2 weeks)
2. Prototyping and testing - Prototyping team (4 weeks)
3. Manufacturing and assembly changes - Manufacturing engineering team (4 weeks)
4. Documentation and training - Technical writing and training teams (2 weeks)
5. Release and deployment - Product management and quality assurance teams (2 weeks)

5. Approval Workflow

Specify the roles and individuals responsible for reviewing and approving the ECR at each stage:

1. Initial Review: [Engineering Manager]
2. Technical Review: [Lead Engineer, Quality Assurance Manager]
3. Business Review: [Product Manager, Finance Manager]
4. Final Approval: [VP of Engineering, VP of Product]

Once the ECR is complete, submit it for review and approval according to the specified workflow. Implement the change only after obtaining all required approvals and ensure that all stakeholders are informed of the change status throughout the process.