Industry Forum

Advanced Product Quality Planning (APQP) Training

Course overview 

Advanced Product Quality Planning, or APQP, is a method for new product or process introduction or the introduction of changes to existing product or processes. Developed by the North American Automotive Industry it is now being used as best practice by industrial sectors such as automotive, aerospace, renewable energy & mobile power generation.

APQP is module one of the Core Tools Certification. This module can be completed as a standalone course or part of the full Core Tools Certification Training. The full Core Tools Certification is achieved by completing all 5 modules of Core Tools Certification Training (APQP, FMEA, SPC, MSA and PPAP) and upon successful completion of the exam. Modules can either be taken as consecutive days (which can be booked here) or individually. 

More information about the contents of each module and Industry Forum’s upcoming module dates can be found here: 

Please note: The statistical techniques used during the Measurement Systems Analysis course are covered in detail in our 1-day  Statistical Process Control (SPC) programme. Therefore, we strongly recommend that you attend our SPC course before attending an MSA course unless you are already familiar with the statistical tools used


Who should attend:  

This course is designed for Management Representatives, Implementation Teams, Internal Auditors and others who are involved in the auditing or implementation of Advanced Quality Planning (AQP) activities including Control Plans. Familiarity with Advanced Quality Planning (AQP) and related Core Tools would be beneficial but not necessary

Certification: 

Upon completion of the course you will receive an Industry Forum certificate of attendance.


Benefits and Learning Objectives:  

APQP is used to support the introduction of new products and processes as well as managing changes to existing products and processes.

It is often mandated by automotive, aerospace and other engineering primary manufacturers as a specific requirement on their suppliers to give them assurance of effective and efficient  product and process  introduction. Companies that apply Advanced Product Quality Planning, gain improved efficiencies and reduced costs in new product/process introductions, with lower product defects and better on time delivery performance.

Delegates will become competent in implementing and auditing AQP and creating Control Plans and also develop an understanding of the links to SPC, MSA, FMEA and PPAP.

Topics covered: 


    • APQP Process Overview 
    • 5 Phases of APQP 
    • Inputs and outputs for each of the 5 phases
    • APQP linkages to Failure Modes and Effects Analysis (FMEA), Statistical Process Control (SPC), Measurement System Analysis (MSA) and Production Part Approval Process (PPA) 
    • Control Plan

    Introduction to IF

    We have been delivering significant and measurable performance improvements for leading global manufacturers for more than 25 years and believe there is no one size fits all approach to driving competitiveness across the industry. Toyota, Rolls Royce and Electrolux are among the brands who have tapped into our expertise to ensure they remain on top in their own fiercely competitive markets.

    Why choose SMMT QMD:

    In order to strengthen the services we provide to the UK's automotive quality management specialists and further underpin the competitiveness of UK manufacturers, SMMT Industry Forum has created SMMT QMD, its new Quality Management Division.

    SMMT QMD was launched at the inaugural Automotive Quality Management Systems Conference in Birmingham in November 2018 and aims to ensure that the UK automotive industry plays an active role in the development and governance of national and international automotive standards. 

    SMMT QMD will provide a community of practice to directly support UK quality professionals, ensuring standards are effectively implemented and improving competitive performance. As such, SMMT QMD will now provide the following services:

    • An industry association for quality managers
    • Training, professional development and resources
    • Publications
    • Practical help and support

    Course booking details:  

    Leading Expertise
    We don’t employ “trainers”, rather a team of experienced industry experts who are able to apply their knowledge to your business

    Proven Capability
    We have been helping organisations like yours for over 25 years to deliver and maintain sustainable improvement

    Attainable Results
    We know what’s possible and how to help you achieve it by utilising our tried and tested techniques for long term success

    Robust Execution
    We believe that training should be through a ‘learn by doing’ approach with coaching and mentoring wherever possible

    Date & Time Venue Cost Availability Take Action
    15 Apr 2024 - 15 Apr 2024
    08:30 AM - 04:30 PM
    SMMT Industry Forum, United Kingdom £549 Yes Book
    20 May 2024 - 20 May 2024
    08:30 AM - 04:30 PM
    Virtual (UK time), United Kingdom £549 Yes Book
    24 Jun 2024 - 24 Jun 2024
    08:30 AM - 04:30 PM
    SMMT Industry Forum, United Kingdom £549 Yes Book
    15 Jul 2024 - 15 Jul 2024
    08:30 AM - 04:30 PM
    Virtual (UK time), United Kingdom £549 Yes Book
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