List each characteristic, set its classification (Critical / Significant / Standard) and where it’s controlled. Critical & Significant items must flow to the PFMEA and control plan.
Vanguard Quality Partners
Enterprise Quality System · New Product Introduction
Special Characteristics Matrix
Vanguard Quality Partners
Defects Out. Confidence In.
vanguardqualitypartners.com
Part # / Name
Supplier / Plant
Customer
Doc # / Rev
Owner / Team
Date
# Characteristic Classification Source Specification / Tolerance Process Step (PFMEA) Control Method (Control Plan) Reaction if NC
Critical (CC)

Affects safety or regulatory compliance. Always needs error‑proofing and 100% verification or proven capability.

Significant (SC)

Important to fit, function or customer satisfaction. Needs defined controls and capability monitoring.

Standard

Normal characteristic held by good manufacturing practice; standard inspection applies.

Every Critical and Significant characteristic must appear in the PFMEA and carry a matching control on the Control Plan.
Vanguard Quality Partners · Measure. Improve. Excel.
Special characteristics matrix — the agreed list of what matters most, and where it is controlled.
© Vanguard Quality Partners. Template for client use. vanguardqualitypartners.com