Re: Product Audit (8.2.2.3) vs. Layout Inspection (8.2.4.1) - What are the difference
I seem to be coming back around to 8.2.4.1 periodically to clarify how layout and functional testing is related to Customer Specific Requirements of Annual Layout and Functional Testing, and Product Audits.
How does 8.2.4.1 relate to monitoring and measurement - beyond the CSR to be performed annually?
Could a TS system have Dock Audits and Annual Layouts combined to meet TS Product Audits?
Thanks for your clarification in these maters!
Doug
There are a few misconceptions in the responses so far (in addition to the usual good information). Layouts have been being done since long before the advent of Chrysler's erstwhile QS-9000 requirements. It's the norm for layouts to be done for all new products, whether automotive or not, especially where hard tooling is involved. A layout is nothing more than full dimensional inspection. Part of an automotive layout (for PPAP purposes, e.g.) is also verification of all non-dimensional design record requirements, such as insuring that the requisite testing has been satisfactorily completed.
A product audit, on the other hand, is verification of the process that produced the parts in question, and may or may not include a full layout. A product audit will typically follow the process from receipt of raw materials, through production, and on to the packaging/shipping process. It's not necessary, in my experience, to take it all the way back to the design/development stage, as that process should be addressed separately. An exception might be in the case of new parts, where the entire system is audited in the pre-launch phase.
In answer to Doug's question about dock audits and annual layouts being sufficient to answer the requirements for product audits, annual (or any other) layout is a separate process, and should be done only when there's a customer requirement or other rational reason. Dock audits, on the other hand, are usually intended to verify only the post-production condition of the product and packaging/storage/shipping requirements. What is normally identified as a dock audit isn't sufficient to satisfy the requirements of a product audit, although it depends on the scope of the audit.