Advanced Product Quality Planning.
Advanced Product Quality Planning (APQP), when done properly, can yield huge benefits in terms of product and process quality and on-time product launch.
Top-level benefits
The challenge is that APQP is often a mandated process from your customer and it can soon become a burden to your organisation if you manage and execute the process manually. Singlepoint’s APQP module gives you the opportunity to be on top of this process and to truly extract the full range of benefits it has to offer.
Ensure accurate & consistent data
Singlepoint APQP manages all data in SQL. This allows organisations to re-use the data as and where needed with the certain knowledge that the data is correct across all of your documents and references.
Cross-functional yet secure team collaboration
Organisations have the ability to manage permissions and user access, allowing multiple users to view information in a secure, but still collaborative, manner.
Save time vs. manual spreadsheets
The ability to re-use work and data is front and centre in our APQP module; for example, we have a Process Library, pre-populated with the various references required across Control Plan and Process FMEA, ready for you to select and watch as Singlepoint builds your documents and your project.
Data-driven documents
Singlepoint runs on smart, data-driven documents that know their own content and inter-relate to other suite documents, covering:
Process library
Our APQP module includes a process library with all references required for control plan, PFMEA and characteristics list. Simply select the processes you need and sit back and let Singlepoint build the documents and the project pack for you. Easily import existing data from excel.
Centralised data management
Data is managed centrally throughout Singlepoint. This means that if you change a reference in, for example, the characteristics list, the change will be propagated throughout the project automatically. This includes a full approval process and full audit trail, which is fully integrated with Singlepoint’s Document Management System.
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Case studies
Doncasters Trucast: Strengthening NPI & Audit Governance
Doncasters Trucast, a recognised leader in precision investment castings and turbine components, needed to strengthen governance and traceability within its New Product Introduction process. Operating in highly regulated mobility and aerospace-related markets, the business required a more structured, auditable and scalable approach to gated project management. By implementing Singlepoint’s configurable NPI module, Doncasters Trucast introduced electronic gate approvals aligned to regulatory standards, improving visibility, accountability and compliance. The result has been sustained zero audit findings related to NPI for over three years, alongside reduced administrative burden and improved real-time insight for engineering, quality and customer-facing teams.
FMP: Delivering 4,000 Hours of Efficiency Gains
FMP, one of the UK’s leading manufacturers of medical devices and healthcare products, needed to replace its manual, paper-based processes with a more efficient, compliant system. After evaluating 15 platforms across two review cycles, Singlepoint stood out as the clear leader for its flexibility, scalability and ease of use. By implementing Singlepoint’s document management and training modules, FMP achieved measurable time savings of 4,000 hours per year and significantly improved audit readiness.
Faltec: ERP Integration and Audit Efficiency
Faltec Europe streamlined operations and enhanced compliance by replacing outdated systems with Singlepoint. Discover how seamless ERP integration and centralised document management transformed their digital workflow.
UTAC: Driving Quality and Efficiency with Integrated Quality Management
UTAC UK, a leading provider of powertrain and engine testing services, faced challenges with outdated paper-based quality management processes. Senior Manager Peter Davies sought a modern, integrated solution to streamline operations across multiple sites. By implementing Singlepoint’s adaptable platform, UTAC UK digitised their entire quality management system, including document control, auditing and risk management
HiiROC: Streamlining Quality Management for Rapid Business Growth
“My rule of thumb is if my boss can find what they are looking for quickly, then the system works. With Singlepoint, anyone can now find documents in a few clicks. It has made things very easy for everyone” Keith Renouf, Head of HSEQ.
Amcor: Document Management
“Singlepoint is a very good system for control of documentation. You have everything on the system and it’s user-friendly. Everybody in the company can use it.” – Irene, Quality Systems Manager
The Mentholatum Company: Document Management
The Mentholatum Company, a US-based developer of OTC products, faced challenges with document management and regulatory compliance under FDA and cGMP guidelines. Adopting Singlepoint’s Document Management System, they transformed their paper-based system into a digital powerhouse, enhancing document security, access control, and audit readiness.
Hitachi Rail: Multi-site implementation
Hitachi Rail Europe, Ltd. is a wholly owned subsidiary of Hitachi, Ltd. and a total railway system supplier offering rolling stock, traction equipment, signalling, traffic management systems and maintenance centres.
Gates Power Systems: Visual Navigator
Gates Power Systems enhanced their document management with Singlepoint’s Visual Navigator, linking ‘hotspots’ to manufacturing equipment images for precise document access.
Surface Transforms: Document Control and Training Management
Thanks to Singlepoint, Surface Transforms has significantly upgraded their document control and safety processes. The software has catalysed a paperless revolution on the shop floor, instilling greater confidence in their operational practices.
FAQs
What does APQP stand for, and what is its purpose in automotive and regulated manufacturing?
APQP stands for Advanced Product Quality Planning. It provides a structured approach to product and process development, helping ensure quality requirements are met before production begins.
What are the five phases of APQP, and what quality deliverables are expected at each phase?
The five phases cover planning, product design, process design, validation, and production feedback. Each phase includes specific deliverables such as risk assessments, control plans, validation records, and quality approvals.
What is the difference between APQP and PPAP, and how do they work together in an automotive product launch?
APQP manages the planning and development process, while PPAP provides evidence that production requirements have been met. PPAP is typically the final output of a successful APQP programme.
How does Singlepoint APQP software connect to PPAP, NPI, and quality management modules for end-to-end product launch quality control?
Singlepoint APQP links planning activities with PPAP, NPI, risk management, and quality processes. This provides visibility and traceability throughout the entire product launch lifecycle.
How does APQP software support IATF 16949:2016 requirements for product and process quality planning?
It helps manage project milestones, risks, approvals, and required deliverables within a structured framework. This supports consistent quality planning and compliance with IATF 16949 requirements.
We supply components to a Tier 1 automotive customer who requires a documented APQP process for all new part numbers. What does APQP software do to help manage this across multiple customer programmes simultaneously?
It standardises APQP workflows, tracks deliverables, and provides visibility across projects. This helps teams manage multiple programmes consistently while maintaining compliance with customer requirements.