AUDIT|ASSESSMENT

This category encompasses all activities related to the evaluation, verification, and continuous improvement of quality systems within the automotive industry. It includes internal audits, external customer assessments, and compliance with international standards such as IATF 16949.
Key Focus Areas
IATF 16949 Compliance Audits
Structured audits to ensure alignment with the global automotive quality standard, covering process control, risk management, and customer-specific requirements.
Customer-Specific Assessments
Evaluations conducted by OEMs or Tier 1 suppliers to verify supplier readiness, production capability, and quality system maturity.
Internal Quality Audits
Regular audits performed by the organization to monitor adherence to documented procedures, identify gaps, and drive corrective actions.
Layered Process Audits (LPA)
Multi-level audits focusing on process discipline and operational consistency across departments.
Supplier Quality Audits
On-site or remote assessments of supplier facilities to ensure product quality, process stability, and documentation accuracy.
Audit Planning & Documentation
Includes audit schedules, checklists, non-conformance reports, and follow-up action tracking.

Organizational Role
This category is typically managed by:
Quality Assurance Teams
SQD/SQE (Supplier Quality Development/Engineering)
Customer Quality Representatives
Third-party Certification Bodies
These activities are essential for maintaining high standards, ensuring customer satisfaction, and achieving continuous improvement across the automotive supply chain.