Knowledge Axis
What is TS 16949?
TS 16949 is an internationally recognized Quality Management System specification for the automotive industry. TS 16949:2009 is the current version (last updated in the year 2009) of the standard that was developed for the Automotive Industry. It contains all of the requirements of ISO 9001 plus several additional requirements specifically for the Automotive Industry.
TS 16949 is an internationally recognized Quality Management System specification for the automotive industry. TS 16949:2009 is the current version (last updated in the year 2009) of the standard that was developed for the Automotive Industry. It contains all of the requirements of ISO 9001 plus several additional requirements specifically for the Automotive Industry.
Why TS 16949 and not just ISO 16949?
The International Organization of Standards, (ISO) is a worldwide organization that develops many different kinds of standards. Recommendations to ISO for a new specification require 2/3 majority vote to be approved as a Technical Specification (thus the TS). Once it is approved by 3/4 of the members it becomes a standard (like ISO 9001).
The International Organization of Standards, (ISO) is a worldwide organization that develops many different kinds of standards. Recommendations to ISO for a new specification require 2/3 majority vote to be approved as a Technical Specification (thus the TS). Once it is approved by 3/4 of the members it becomes a standard (like ISO 9001).
Why do companies want to Implement TS 16949?
Registration to TS 16949 is a requirement for any company wanting to supply its products to the Automotive Industry. Companies registered to this Technical Specification are required to develop their suppliers’ Quality Management Systems with the goal of the supplier conforming to TS 16949. The first step in this development is often for the supplier to achieve third party registration to ISO 9001:2000.
Registration to TS 16949 is a requirement for any company wanting to supply its products to the Automotive Industry. Companies registered to this Technical Specification are required to develop their suppliers’ Quality Management Systems with the goal of the supplier conforming to TS 16949. The first step in this development is often for the supplier to achieve third party registration to ISO 9001:2000.
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF CERTIFICATION?
Customer satisfaction. Deliver products that consistently meet customer requirements.
Reduced operating costs. Continual improvement of processes and resulting operational efficiencies mean money saved.
Improved stakeholder relationships. Improve the perception of your organization with staff, customers and suppliers.
Improved risk management. Gain a greater understanding of organizational risks; focus on consistency and traceability of products to help prevent problems.
Proven business credentials. Independent verification against recognized standards speaks volumes.
Open doors to win more business. Procurement specifications often require certification as a prerequisite for suppliers, particularly in a highly regulated sector.
Customer satisfaction. Deliver products that consistently meet customer requirements.
Reduced operating costs. Continual improvement of processes and resulting operational efficiencies mean money saved.
Improved stakeholder relationships. Improve the perception of your organization with staff, customers and suppliers.
Improved risk management. Gain a greater understanding of organizational risks; focus on consistency and traceability of products to help prevent problems.
Proven business credentials. Independent verification against recognized standards speaks volumes.
Open doors to win more business. Procurement specifications often require certification as a prerequisite for suppliers, particularly in a highly regulated sector.
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The industry landscape is always changing. These changes have impacts to your customer needs and require the evolution of your management system. Considerations include:
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Changing Regulatory Needs
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Global Outsourcing
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Evolving Customer Requirements
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Shorter Delivery Deadlines
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Integrity Threats in the Supply Chain
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The TS-3 definition of supplier applicability must apply to the organization seeking registration*1;
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One of the registered organization’s customers must list TS-3 as one of the alternatives of a required standard to which its suppliers must comply;
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Any tier may be registered if it has a direct customer (or potential customer) that requires either compliance or 3rd party registration to TS-3; and
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Evidence of being a potential supplier to a customer requiring TS-3 could include an RFQ issued to the organization, or the organization being on the bid list of the TS-3 subscribing customer.
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*1 i.e., makes or fabricates production materials, parts, assemblies or heat treating, welding, painting, plating or other finishing services
CHANGING INDUSTRY LANDSCAPE AND EXPECTATIONS
SATISFYING YOUR AUTOMOTIVE CUSTOMER
The IATF has asked all registrars to assure that ISO/TS 16949:2009 (TS-3) registrants meet the following applicability requirements:
The IATF has asked all registrars to assure that ISO/TS 16949:2009 (TS-3) registrants meet the following applicability requirements:
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