Product Integrity

  1. Sometimes the "rules and regulations" get in the way of getting a job done. Isn't it more important to see that things get done than to worry about all the procedures?
    1. Getting the job done by going around the rules is not acceptable. Product integrity means that every step in the design, manufacture and test of that product was carried out as the customer intended. That means complying with all contract requirements, specifications and Northrop Grumman policies and procedures. We are each responsible for following proper procedures and, if necessary, for taking action to correct any steps that have become "non-value-added."
  2. My work group is behind schedule. Can I skip an inspection step since I know that final inspection will catch any defects?
    1. Absolutely not. You may not eliminate or substitute anything required by contract or by Northrop Grumman procedure. Failure to comply with requirements could jeopardize the integrity of the product and result in civil or criminal penalties to you and to Northrop Grumman. Northrop Grumman may, in some circumstances, be authorized under its contract to approve "out-of-station" work in which some steps are completed at a different point in the manufacturing process. However, all required steps must be completed and any "out-of-station" work must be properly authorized and documented. 
  3. Can I use a different material than the one in the specification if it's better quality than the specified material?
    1. Not without a formal change to the contract reflecting the customer's prior approval.
  4. I've been told to finish a report by next week. To do it right will take at least two more weeks. If I don't get it done on time, I'll be in trouble. What should I do?
    1. Talk about it with your manager. Make sure you both agree on what needs to be done and when. If this is an internal Northrop Grumman report, and not a contract requirement, Northrop Grumman may be able to approve a change either in report requirements or internal schedule.
  5. I've been told to ship a critical part today, but the paperwork isn't with the job. What should I do?
    1. Do not deviate from established procedures without specific written authorizations from the appropriate Northrop Grumman organization. Accurate documentation is required at every step from design and development, through manufacturing, testing and delivery of our products.

Questions to Ask Yourself