An np-chart is an attributes control chart used with data collected in subgroups that are the same size. Np-charts show how the process, measured by the number of nonconforming items it produces, changes over time. The process attribute (or characteristic) is always described in a yes/no, pass/fail, go/no go form. For example, the number of incomplete accident reports in a constant daily sample of five would be plotted on an np-chart. Np-charts are used to determine if the process is stable and predictable, as well as to monitor the effects of process improvement theories. Np-charts can be created using software programs like SQCpack and CHARTrunner.
