A Streamlined Approach to Embedded Software Approval with CQI-34

Greg Alling, Director and Technical Fellow of Global Quality Systems and Audit at Dana Incorporated, delivered an engaging session on CQI-34 at the recent Virtual Customer Conference. He highlighted the need for a standardized software assurance approval process to address the growing complexities of embedded software in automotive and on-highway applications. CQI-34 serves as a guidance document, providing a structured approach to software approval similar to PPAP in production part approval.

Key Takeaways:

• Purpose of CQI-34: Offers a unified framework to streamline the approval process for embedded software. Addresses challenges like software integration, variability in customer-specific requirements, and alignment with global standards.
• Key Features: 15 Process Requirements: Cover areas such as software versioning, release notes, risk management, and compliance. Submission Guidelines: Includes evidence requirements and approval statuses (Approved, Interim, Rejected). Designed to complement existing standards like ASPICE, ISO 26262, and ISO 21434.
• Industry Collaboration: Encourages alignment among OEMs, suppliers, and standards bodies to ensure wide applicability. Balances consistency with flexibility for diverse customer needs.

Omnex’s Role:

• Training Programs: Comprehensive courses on software quality assurance, functional safety, and cybersecurity.
• Consulting Services: Tailored guidance to align with CQI-34 requirements.
• Audit Support: Assistance in internal and supplier audits to ensure compliance with CQI-34.

Contact Omnex to explore how CQI-34 can simplify your software assurance processes and elevate product quality.

Author

Gregg Alling

Gregg Alling - Director / Technical Fellow – Global Quality Systems and Audit • Dana Incorporated Currently responsible for Dana’s global quality systems and those of the major design centers, and for the company’s software / hardware quality assurance activity. Majored in Mathematics and Statistics at Michigan State University and also attended l’Institut de Touraine in Tours, France. Intacs certified ASPICE Provisional Assessor, and also an ASQ CRE, CQE and CQA. Over 42 years with Dana, having worked in several locations as plant quality manager, division quality director, manufacturing, quality systems and reliability senior engineer, and in his current position for the last 10 years. Also has represented Dana on the AIAG Quality Steering Committee for over 10 years. Currently participating with the AIAG work group that is developing the Software Assurance Approval Process.