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SQA and SQE: How to Ensure Quality Reviews that Strengthen Customer Confidence 

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Leading quality reviews that bolster customer confidence is an ongoing challenge for any SQA or SQE. Beyond meeting standards, your mission is to demonstrate that every component and process is optimized to mitigate risks, ensure performance, and guarantee flawless operation. In this blog, we’ll show you how to execute impeccable reviews that not only highlight your commitment to excellence but also foster long-lasting, trustworthy relationships with your customers.
 
In the automotive industry, the roles of Supplier Quality Assurance (SQA) and Supplier Quality Engineer (SQE) are crucial for ensuring quality at every stage of the supply chain. Their primary goal is not just to meet requirements but to prove, through concrete actions, that processes, components, and vehicles consistently adhere to the highest quality standards. To achieve this, quality reviews must be flawless to identify, prevent issues, and strengthen customer relations.
 
Here is a step-by-step guide on how SQA and SQE professionals can ensure their quality reviews reflect confidence and excellence, maintaining the competitiveness of their production. 

Excellence in Every Review
 
Each review, audit, and preventive action reinforces the perception that as suppliers, we not only meet standards but consistently exceed them. Follow these principles and stand out as a leader in quality management, capable of building lasting relationships with your clients.

Take your quality reviews to the next level and impress your clients with exceptional results with PTI QCS!

We are experts in quality solutions for inspection, rework, launch support, yard management, and supply chain in the automotive industry for leading OEMs and their suppliers. Contact us at janava@ptiqcs.com for Mexico and Brazil, sales@ptiqcs.com for the United States, and tiqbal@ptiqcs.com for Canada. 

1. Understand Customer Expectations
    
   Before conducting any review, it’s essential to understand what truly matters to the customer. What are their critical requirements? What quality points are non-negotiable? An effective quality review should focus on addressing these specific priorities, demonstrating that your organization comprehends the client’s key concerns. 
   
   
2. Master Standards and Regulations
    
   This sector is rigorous in terms of standards and regulations, from IATF 16949 to the OEMs’ (Original Equipment Manufacturers) internal standards. As an SQA or SQE, you must be fully familiar with these frameworks to ensure that evaluations not only meet the requirements but also identify potential improvements in current processes. 
   
   
3. Prepare Comprehensive Documentation
    
   Documentation is the backbone of any review. Test reports, statistical data analysis, internal audits, and quality control records must be up-to-date and available. A clear presentation backed by solid data conveys a sense of control and professionalism, reinforcing the client’s trust in your ability to manage quality. 
   
   
4. Conduct Through Audits
    
   Quality audits are one of the main tools that SQA and SQE professionals have to evaluate suppliers and their processes. There are several types of audits, with the most common being: 
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
5. Clear, Data-Based Communication
    
   During the review, clarity is key. Present your findings directly, using quantitative data and clear evidence to support any observations. Avoid unnecessary technical jargon, but ensure that more technical information is accessible to the client’s specialized personnel. Transparency in your reports builds a reputation of trust.
   
   
6. Proactivity and Continuous Improvement
    
   It’s not just about pointing out problems; an exceptional SQA or SQE stands out by offering solutions. Continuous improvement is a cornerstone in the automotive industry, and quality reviews should reflect a commitment to identifying and correcting weaknesses. Proposing preventive or corrective actions before severe issues arise shows a mindset of leadership and responsibility. 
   
   
7. Establish Clear Corrective Actions
    
   Every finding in a review should be accompanied by a corrective action plan, regular follow-ups to monitor progress, and don’t hesitate to ask for client feedback. It’s an excellent way to continuously improve your processes and strengthen your relationship with them.
   

• Process Audits: Focus on assessing whether production procedures are followed correctly and consistently.
  
  
• Product Audits: Validate that components meet the client’s specifications and requirements. 
  
  
• System Audits: Review whether the supplier’s quality management system (QMS) complies with international standards such as IATF 16949 or ISO 9001. Conducting a thorough audit not only demonstrates control but also allows you to identify areas for improvement and prevent future failures.