Automotive Product Development is a very complex process involving many functions across the organization along with the application of numerous technologies. Generally, most original equipment manufacturers follow a stage-gate process for any new product development. The increasing application of electrical and electronic systems, software and enhanced regulations focusing on overall safety of the eco-system further increases the complexity during development. This paper details the development and implementation of a comprehensive framework designed to enhance the quality and governance of the product development in the automotive industry. As the sector undergoes significant transformation, 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 towards 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 signoffs, critical risk identification through DFMEA, requirements management, issue management, component /vehicle level validation, comprehensive feature/function finalization, software validation and laboratory vehicle testing, Importantly, the framework integrates deliverables from critical safety standards—Functional Safety (ISO 26262) and Cybersecurity (ISO/SAE 21434)—with formal assessments embedded at designated review gateways. To further strengthen software assurance, a dedicated Software Quality Gate assessment 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.