How is APQP different from PPAP?

APQP is the planning framework for product and process development. PPAP is the approval package that demonstrates readiness for production.

When should APQP start?

APQP should start at the earliest concept stage, before design is finalized. Early risk identification saves time and cost later.

What are the five APQP phases?

Planning, product design and development, process design and development, product and process validation, and launch with feedback.

Is APQP required for all automotive programs?

Most OEMs and Tier-1s expect APQP or equivalent planning for new products, major changes, or new suppliers.

Which core tools are used in APQP?

PFMEA, Control Plan, MSA, SPC, and PPAP are key tools used throughout the APQP phases.

Definition

Advanced Product Quality Planning(APQP)

APQP is a structured framework for planning and launching new products in automotive manufacturing. It ensures product quality by aligning design, process, and supplier readiness before production.

What is Advanced Product Quality Planning?

Advanced Product Quality Planning (APQP) is a standardized approach used in automotive and industrial manufacturing to ensure product quality from concept through launch. It defines phases, deliverables, and cross-functional collaboration required for a successful program.

APQP is tightly linked with PPAP and the automotive core tools (PFMEA, Control Plan, SPC, MSA). It helps reduce launch risks, manage changes, and deliver consistent quality performance.

Key Points

APQP is a proactive planning framework, not a reactive quality tool
It aligns design, manufacturing, supplier, and customer requirements
Deliverables include PFMEA, Control Plan, and PPAP readiness
Early risk identification reduces costly late changes
APQP is expected by OEMs and Tier-1 customers

Implementation Guide

Steps:

1Phase 1: Plan and define program requirements
2Phase 2: Product design and development verification
3Phase 3: Process design and development
4Phase 4: Product and process validation
5Phase 5: Launch, feedback, and corrective actions

Best Practices:

Define clear program milestones and deliverable owners
Use PFMEA and Control Plan as living documents
Integrate supplier readiness and PPAP into planning
Track changes with disciplined change management
Use lessons learned from prior launches to reduce risk

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Treating APQP as a checklist rather than a cross-functional process
• Delaying PFMEA until late in the program
• Poor change control and communication between teams
• Underestimating supplier readiness and validation needs
• Skipping Phase 5 feedback and lessons learned

Qualiteh's Approach to Advanced Product Quality Planning

Qualiteh supports APQP through structured planning, supplier alignment, and deliverable tracking. We help teams build robust PFMEAs, Control Plans, and PPAP readiness to protect program launches.