What does ASQMS offer an organisation?
Externally, certification provides evidence that the organisation addresses software quality systematically. Internally, the aim is better process quality and software quality.
Is ASQMS a customer requirement?
Geely has incorporated ASQMS into its 5A supplier evaluation system as a mandatory audit criterion and entry requirement. This applies to ECU suppliers, software suppliers and cloud service providers. Read the ASQMS Deutschland report quoting Geely.
How does an ASQMS audit differ from an Automotive SPICE® assessment?
An ASQMS audit examines the quality management system and its implementation in projects. Existing Automotive SPICE® assessments can provide evidence of that implementation.
How do we integrate ASQMS into our existing quality management system?
Start with your existing processes. A gap analysis against the ASQMS requirements shows what you already cover and where additions are needed. Integrate these additions into your existing system. You do not need to establish a separate quality management system.
We have already achieved Automotive SPICE® Level 3. What is still missing for ASQMS?
Your established standard processes provide a good foundation, but they do not by themselves demonstrate that you meet all ASQMS requirements. A gap analysis identifies which requirements you already cover and where you need to extend your quality management system.
Does ASQMS prescribe how we must implement our processes?
ASQMS defines requirements while allowing flexibility in implementation. You can use your existing processes and methods and extend them where necessary. They must meet the requirements and be applied in everyday work.
My book The Ultimate Guide to ASQMS provides practical guidance on implementation.
What is the role of top management in ASQMS?
Top management is responsible for establishing software quality within the organisation through clear objectives, responsibilities and sufficient resources. Teams carry out the work; management remains responsible for providing the conditions they need.
Does ASQMS also address functional safety and cybersecurity?
Yes. ASQMS requires the organisation to define suitable methods and ensure that people apply them. The technical requirements of ISO 26262 and ISO/SAE 21434 remain applicable. ASQMS integrates these topics into the quality management system.
Does ASQMS apply only to software inside the vehicle?
No. ASQMS also covers software outside the vehicle that contributes to automotive functions, including cloud services, roadside infrastructure and software toolchains. It considers the full lifecycle, from development through operation and maintenance to service termination.
Is ASQMS relevant only to software companies?
No. ASQMS also applies to organisations that develop integrated hardware and software systems. Responsibility for software quality determines its relevance. These organisations include OEMs, suppliers, cloud providers and development tool vendors.
Do the same ASQMS requirements apply to all software?
ASQMS distinguishes between software without functional safety or cybersecurity risks (Type I) and software with such risks (Type II). The basic requirements apply to both. Type II software has additional mandatory requirements.
Does ASQMS certify an individual software product?
No. Certification covers the organisation's quality management system within the defined scope. It demonstrates that the organisation addresses software quality systematically. It does not certify that an individual product is free of defects.
Who is the ASQMS Foundation Training for?
The course is for quality professionals, project managers and developers who want to understand ASQMS and assess its relevance to their organisation. The one-day course explains its structure, content and relationship to Automotive SPICE® and IATF 16949. Participants receive a certificate of attendance; there is no certification exam. View the Foundation course.
Who is the ASQMS Consultant Training for?
The course is for quality managers, process managers, lead engineers and consultants who want to integrate ASQMS into existing management systems and put it into practice. Over three days, you learn to interpret requirements, identify gaps and define concrete measures. The ASQMS Oversight Office conducts the separate certification exam. View the Consultant course.
Who is the ASQMS 1st/2nd Party Auditor Training for?
The course is for people who want to implement ASQMS in their organisation or plan and conduct internal or supplier audits. The four-day course covers operational, support and management processes, as well as the audit approach. The ASQMS Oversight Office conducts the separate certification exam. View the Auditor course.
Consultant or Auditor: which training should I choose?
The three-day Consultant course is for people who want to implement ASQMS and support organisations in doing so. The four-day Auditor course also covers planning and conducting internal and supplier audits. It is suitable for implementation work too. Choose according to whether you also want to conduct audits.
What prior knowledge do I need for the Auditor Training?
You should have experience with ISO 9001 and Automotive SPICE®, work experience in a software-related environment and knowledge of the ISO 19011 audit guidelines. An auditor or assessor qualification is preferred. Knowledge of IATF 16949, functional safety and cybersecurity is helpful.
Will my company be certified after I attend the training?
No. The training develops your personal competence. Company certification requires a separate audit of the quality management system and its implementation.
Are the courses online or on site?
The published training dates are online. In-house courses are also available. Please use our contact form to enquire.
How do I register for a training course?
Select your date in the registration form for your chosen course and enter your details. You will then receive a confirmation email with a Stripe payment link. View upcoming dates and registration options.
Are the exam and the ASQMS standard included in the course fee?
The exam and the ASQMS standard cost extra. Melster Consulting can invoice both. If you purchase the standard through us, you receive a voucher to redeem in the ASQMS shop.