How the new guidelines affect quality management
Monday morning, 8.15 am. A quality manager is asked to provide proof of measuring system capability in accordance with VDA 5. New standard requirements, customer specifications and time-consuming documentation make the management of inspection equipment and inspection processes a daily challenge.
Harmonisation of VDA and AIAG - what is it all about?
Requirements in the automotive industry are constantly increasing. The VDA and AIAG are currently harmonising the standards for SPC and for measurement and inspection processes. The new SPC Manual has already been published, and the publication on measurement and inspection processes will follow. Both will form part of IATF 16949 certification in future.
VDA Volume 5 - the practical guide to capability analysis
The calculation of measurement uncertainty is a key component of the harmonised SPC Manual. VDA Volume 5 (3rd edition) describes the practical implementation of capability analysis for measurement and inspection processes, from planning through risk analysis to ongoing monitoring. In practice, however, this involves large amounts of data, complex calculations and a significant administrative burden.
Digitalisation as a key to success
The Com.IPM software fully maps the requirements of VDA Volume 5 in digital form – from capability analysis to test planning. Automated calculations in accordance with VDA 5 and ISO 22514-7, structured risk analyses, digital inspection process management, and AI-supported test planning and measuring equipment selection reduce the workload and create transparency.
Frequently asked questions about the harmonisation of VDA and AIAG
What is the difference between VDA 5 and the new SPC Manual?
In principle, the two documents address different issues. Whilst VDA Volume 5 deals with the question ‘Are the measurement values correct?’, the SPC Manual focuses on ‘Is the process capable and stable?’.
VDA Volume 5 (3rd edition, 2021) sets out the requirements for the capability, planning and management of measurement and inspection processes, with a focus on the capability of measuring equipment, measurement uncertainty and the risk-based validation of test decisions.
The SPC Manual, published on 1 July 2026, represents the first harmonisation of statistical process control by VDA and AIAG and seeks to reconcile the European (VDA) and American approaches (AIAG). Topics covered include machine and process capability studies, the qualification and approval of production facilities and processes, the monitoring and control of ongoing processes using control charts, as well as the early detection of deviations and continuous improvement.
From when does the SPC Manual apply to audits under IATF 16949?
There is (as yet) no binding date set by the IATF from which the new Manual (or the forthcoming harmonisation of VDA and AIAG guidelines on the capability of measurement and inspection processes) must be applied. The Manual is intended as a recommendation or a consensus guide. It only becomes mandatory if required by a customer or if it forms the basis of a contract. However, it should be noted that the harmonised manuals form the methodological basis for IATF requirements.
Which companies are affected by the harmonisation of VDA and AIAG?
In principle, the entire global automotive supply chain is affected, from raw material suppliers to OEMs. This includes
- all IATF 16949 certified companies
- all suppliers along the value chain
- Manufacturers who have customers in both North America AND Europe and who, until now, have had to comply with the different AIAG and VDA requirements in parallel.
Conclusion
With the harmonisation of VDA and AIAG, measurement uncertainty and proof of capability are becoming increasingly important. Digital solutions such as Com.IPM reduce the workload, generate audit-proof documentation, increase transparency and support companies in efficiently implementing the requirements of VDA Volume 5.
The ComPro team will be happy to support you in tackling these new challenges with software, training and individual consultancy services. Please feel free to contact us directly for further information.
This full-length article was written by Dr.-Ing. Edgar Dietrich and is available for download here.