VDA 6.3 Process Audit

Who Uses The VDA 6.3?

As the VDA 6.3 is a standard created by the German automotive industry association, it is typically used by German automakers e.g. Mercedes-Benz, BMW, Daimler, Opel, and Volkswagen. It can be used by any company though.

Why VDA 6.3?

VDA 6.3 isn't a mere checkbox on a compliance list; it's a catalyst for enhancing quality standards. The automotive industry, known for its precision and exacting demands, finds in VDA 6.3 a partner in excellence. Through rigorous assessments, it ensures that every gear in the organizational machinery turns with calibrated precision.

What Are The Main Components Of A VDA 6.3 Process Audit?

Let's examine the key components that make VDA 6.3 a potent force in quality management:

1. Process Analysis

VDA 6.3 goes beyond superficial evaluations. It delves into the intricacies of processes, unraveling inefficiencies and bottlenecks. This in-depth scrutiny fosters a culture of continuous improvement.

2. Risk Management

Risk accompanies every business venture. VDA 6.3 doesn't shy away from confronting it head-on. Through a robust risk management framework, it fortifies organizations against potential pitfalls.

3. Competence Evaluation

In the automotive realm, competence is non-negotiable. VDA 6.3 evaluates the competence of personnel, ensuring that each team member is a superstar in their role.

What Are The Challenges In Embracing VDA 6.3?

Embracing VDA 6.3 can pose various challenges, such as:

1. Paradigm Shift Resistance

One of the primary challenges in embracing VDA 6.3 is the resistance to a paradigm shift. Organizations accustomed to conventional auditing practices may find the depth and thoroughness of VDA 6.3 unsettling.

2. Skillset Misalignment

The skills required for VDA 6.3 implementation may not align with the existing competencies within the organization. This misalignment can impede the seamless integration of the standard.

3. Implementation Costs

Resource allocation, both in terms of time and finances, can pose a significant challenge. Implementing VDA 6.3 requires an investment that some organizations may be hesitant to make.

4. Documentation Overload

VDA 6.3 demands meticulous documentation, which can be perceived as an overload by teams accustomed to less detailed reporting.

What's Changed In VDA 6.3?

The VDA 6.3 was first published in 1998. The latest revision was issued in January 2023. The specific changes include:

Consistency in Core Elements

• Classification System (A, B, C) remains unchanged for overall assessment.
• Structure of the questionnaire maintains continuity.
• Evaluation model for individual questions (10-8-6-4-0) and the Turtle Model are retained.

Evolutionary Changes in VDA 6.3:2023

• New questionnaire addresses software considerations, reflecting industry reliance on software in automotive processes.
• Content aligns with Automotive SPICE® and VDA MLA for an integrated quality management system.
• Addition of requirements related to purchasing activities in P3 and P4.
• Incorporation of guidance for conducting remote audits in response to changing work dynamics.
• Removal of Chapter 4 (audit process) for streamlining.
• Chapter 8 (process audit services) moved to a separate publication (VDA 6.8).
• Glossary transferred to the higher-level VDA QMC online glossary for accessibility.
• Questions of special significance (*-marked) partially reassigned.
• Questions regarding potential analysis partially reallocated.

Revised Questionnaire VDA 6.3:2023

• Now comprises 59 questions.
• 17 *-questions redefined.
• 35 questions focus on potential analysis, with a shifted "assessment threshold."
• Software-related requirements integrated into the questionnaire.
• Purchasing Requirements in P3 and P4:
• Emphasis on purchasing activities with specific requirements introduced in P3 and P4.

What Are The Requirements For The VDA 6.3 Certification?

VDA 6.3 certification is more than a compliance checklist. Let's explore the key requirements.

• Choice between IATF 16949:2016 or VDA 6.1 for certification.
• Product suitability assessment through Formula Q-capability/Q-capability software.
• Internal audits aligning with IATF 16949:2016, Formula Q-capability, or KVP Continual Improvement Process.
• Annual self-assessment using Q-capability with thorough documentation.
• Identification and systematic mitigation of all risks in the supply chain.

Crucial Focus Areas

• Robust documentation of development in automobile manufacturing production systems.
• Streamlined procedures for supply and distribution.
• Implementation of stringent quality assurance measures.
• Clear delineation of responsibilities of automobile manufacturers in the supply chain.
• Recruitment and retention of highly informed and experienced staff.
• Emphasis on a well-trained workforce, a cornerstone of organizational strength.

Embracing VDA 6.3 certification is a strategic leap for automotive companies and helps with bringing up business operations to meet global quality benchmarks. VDA 6.3 employs a rigorous scoring system. Non-compliance with essential process control standards triggers automatic disqualification, emphasizing a steadfast commitment to excellence in the ever-evolving automotive landscape.

The VDA 6.3 process audit is the secret to ensuring that your product manufacturing has that German precision, workmanship, and quality excellence that German companies are so renowned for. AMREP, your strategic partner in quality, is dedicated to the relentless pursuit of perfection and we have many engineers who have experience in deploying the VDA 6.3.

Sources:

• VDA 6.3 Based process audits as a tool for supplier evaluation. - http://www.sszp.eu/wp-content/uploads/2013_conference_MaZP__p-56__Surinova.pdf
• The new IATF 16949:2016 standard in the automotive supply chain. - https://yadda.icm.edu.pl/baztech/element/bwmeta1.element.baztech-981a265c-b188-46e1-8d9d-efa4f5832232