It’s a structured framework used mainly in automotive and manufacturing industries to make sure a product is designed and launched right the first time, meeting customer requirements for quality, cost, and delivery.
In simple terms
APQP helps teams plan, design, validate, and launch a product in a disciplined way so surprises are minimized during production.
The 5 phases of APQP
Plan & Define Program
Understand customer needs, risks, timelines, and targets.Product Design & Development
Create drawings, specifications, DFMEA, design reviews, and prototypes.Process Design & Development
Design the manufacturing process, PFMEA, control plans, tooling, and layouts.Product & Process Validation
Run trial builds, conduct testing, capability studies, and complete PPAP.Launch, Feedback & Continuous Improvement
Start production, monitor performance, and drive improvements.
Key tools used in APQP
Voice of Customer (VOC)
DFMEA / PFMEA
Control Plans
MSA (Measurement System Analysis)
SPC (Statistical Process Control)
PPAP (Production Part Approval Process)
Why companies use APQP
Reduces launch failures and rework
Improves cross-functional coordination
Ensures compliance with customer standards (IATF 16949)
Saves cost by preventing defects early
Where it’s most common
Automotive OEMs & suppliers
Aerospace
Electronics manufacturing
Medical devices (with adaptations)
If you want, I can explain APQP vs PPAP, give a real factory example, or show how APQP applies to machinery like feeders or card-handling equipment.
