This abstract outline a paper detailing the development and implementation of a comprehensive framework designed to enhance the quality and governance of the product development process in the automotive industry. As the sector undergoes significant transformation—driven by electrification, autonomous systems, and increasing regulatory and customer expectations—the need for structured development approach and robust oversight has become critical to success. The paper introduces a newly developed framework for Final Data Judgment (FDJ) and Engineering Sign-Off (ESO), representing a next-generation strategy to defect free design, robust engineering quality management and product maturity assurance. This methodology emphasizes customer-centric deliverables, risk-based assessments, and technical rigor to minimize post-SOP issues and ensure alignment with end-user expectations.
The approach prioritizes end-user impact by embedding rigorous quality checkpoints that align engineering outputs with customer expectations. Key elements in this framework include vehicle application-specific sign-offs, critical risk identification through DFMEA, requirements management, issue management, component /vehicle level validation, comprehensive feature/function finalization, software validation, laboratory vehicle testing, and systematic issue analysis using 2x2 risk matrix approach using the field failure data. Importantly, the framework integrates deliverables from critical safety standards—Functional Safety (ISO 26262) and Cybersecurity (ISO/SAE 21434)—with formal assessments embedded at designated design review (DR) gateways. To further strengthen software assurance, a dedicated Software Quality Gate Process (SQGP) derived using ASPICE (Automotive Software Process Improvement and Capability Determination) framework has been instituted, establishing structured criteria for software verification, traceability, and process maturity.
A pivotal enabler of this approach is the digitization of FDJ/ESO processes within the Requirements Management and Design Verification Validation (RMDVV) tool, enabling centralized data governance, real-time status, and full traceability across stakeholders. This paper demonstrates how the proposed framework drives continuous improvement, elevates product reliability, and aligns with enterprise goals of zero unscheduled service visits and best-in-class customer satisfaction. By embedding stringent checkpoints and digital tools, this process fortifies governance, ensuring alignment with organizational goals to meet elevated standards for quality and reliability.
Keywords: ESO, FDJ, Functional Safety, ASPICE, Digitization, Zero defects