DEC STD 066-2

This document, "DEC STD 066-2 Waivers to Digital Design Standards," establishes the procedures and responsibilities for preparing, reviewing, approving, and controlling waivers to technical requirements for Digital products.

Key points:

• Purpose: To provide a visible, controlled method for handling exceptions to Digital design standards (specifically those listed in DEC STD 066-0).
• Applicability: Mandatory for all Digital personnel involved in the design, development, manufacture, or purchase of Digital products worldwide, including buyout products.
• Policy: Waivers may be granted when design standards are not applicable to specific product markets or for voluntary requirements. However, waivers that violate legally mandated external regulations are strictly prohibited. The long-term goal is to reduce and eliminate the need for waivers. The Product Business Unit (PBU) Manager is responsible for endorsing waivers based on factors like legal consistency, business strategy, and cost/profit impact.

• Process: A formal, multi-step process is defined, involving:

  1. Identification of potential non-compliance by the PBU Representative.
  2. Consultation with the Standard Owner to seek alternatives.
  3. Preparation of a "Waiver Request Form."
  4. Internal acceptance within the PBU (Engineering, Product, Manufacturing).
  5. Review by the Standard Owner and other general review groups.
  6. Final approval and activation upon the PBU Manager's signature.
  7. Ongoing monitoring and an annual review of active waivers.

• Responsibilities: Key roles include the PBU Representative (who drives the waiver request), the Standard Owner (provides technical consultation), the Standards Process Manager (administers and monitors the overall waiver process), and the ISIS Manager (responsible for escalating unresolved issues).

• Confidentiality: The document and its process are for Digital internal use only and must not be shared with external parties (vendors, customers, etc.), even under non-disclosure agreements.