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IATF 16949

Automotive Quality Management System

Introduction to IATF 16949

IATF 16949:2016 (replaces ISO/TS 16949:2009) is a standard that specifies the requirements for a quality management system (QMS) specifically for the automotive sector. ISO/TS 16949 was created in 1999 to coordinate the various assessment and certification schemes around the world in the supply chain for the automotive sector.

The focus of the IATF 16949 standard is the development of a quality management system for continuous improvement. This emphasizes the prevention of defects and reducing variability and waste in the supply chain. This standard, together with Customer Specific Requirements (CSR), defines the QMS requirements for manufacturing, servicing, and automotive aftermarket parts.

 

IATF 16949:2016 is a standard that is fully aligned with the structure and requirements of ISO 9001:2015. IATF 16949 cannot be implemented alone as an independent document but must be implemented as a complement to ISO 9001:2015. Using ISO9001 as a base, this standard examines the effectiveness and efficiency of processes in the automotive supply sector. This includes employee competence and awareness, design, and development, as well as production and service delivery.

Quality management system based on IATF 16949:

It is a method of defining how an organization can meet the needs of its customers and other stakeholders.

It promotes the idea of continuous improvement. It requires organizations to define goals and continuously improve their processes to achieve them. It emphasizes the prevention of defects. It promotes the reduction of variation and waste in the supply chain. It requires documented and enforced corporate responsibility policies.

It covers the specific requirements and key tools of the automotive industry including the following.

*Advanced Product Quality Planning (APQP)

* Failure Mode and Effect Analysis (FMEA)

*Statistical Process Control (SPC)

*Measurement Systems Analysis (MSA)

*Production Part Approval Process (PPAP)

Implementing IATF 16949 ensures that customers receive quality and consistent products and services, which in turn may bring many business benefits. IATF 16949 requirements for a quality management system when an organization wants to:

*Demonstrate its ability to provide products that meet the customer’s applicable legal, regulatory, and product safety requirements.

* Increase customer satisfaction through the effective use of the system

*Implement system improvement processes

*Define the context, who will be affected, and what their expectations are

*Clarify objectives and identify new business opportunities

* Customers prioritize and ensure that their needs are met consistently and increase their satisfaction.

*Get repeat customers, increase customer loyalty, add new customers and grow the business.

* Expand business markets, as some sectors and customers require IATF 16949 before doing business.

*Identify and address risks related to your organization.

* Work more efficiently and reduce internal costs to increase productivity and efficiency.

*Be more socially responsible by documenting and implementing corporate responsibility policies.

In what cases IATF 16949 apply?

Compliance with IATF 16949 can be done at any time but is typically used when:
Customers specify this requirement as part of the contract.
Organizations want to improve their products and increase customer satisfaction.

IATF 16949 compliance can be achieved through the following seven-step approach:

Executive and managerial overview/planning

Gap assessment and planning

Documentation

Implementation and training

Internal evaluation and management review

Third-party registration evaluation

Sustainable and continuous improvement