Process Improvement for Automotive Development

Gap Analysis

Novotis use informal assessments as a way to identify strengths and key weaknesses. With 20 years of experience with  Automotive SPICE and ISO 26262 across a range of OEM and suppliers Novotis can contribute with exceptional experience.

Process Improvement

Novotis has an iterative approach to improvment. We work in short iterations. Typically 2 – 3 iterations of one month is sufficient to establish a group of processes. Lifting all processes to Level 3 maturity takes 18 – 24 months.

Training

Novotis have 20 years of experience with public and in-house training at automotive OEM, Tier 1 and Tier 2 suppliers. We focus on providing training based on your needs. We can put together a training with the scope and focus you require.

Our approach to process improvements

1) Gap analysis

Novotis use informal assessments as a way to identify strengths and key weaknessses. Novotis do not believe in “just do what the standard says”. We want to find practical solutions for the company. With 20 years of experience with  Automotive SPICE and ISO 26262 across a range of OEM and suppliers, Novotis can offer a unique perspective.

An initial gap analysis will take 3 – 4 days and can be combined with introductory training if the company has no previous experience with Automotive SPICE or ISO 26262.

2) Improvement program

Novotis can support the company with establishing an improvement program. A program focuses first on the key gaps in “Level 1” in the SPICE model. In parallel we recommend working with the higher levels in the model like establishing reviews, a “Level 2” practice and establishing a SPICE / ISO 26262 Quality System, a “Level 3” requirement.

Novotis has an iterative approach to establishing and improving processes and methods. We work hands-on in the project with the work products. We work in short iterations. Typically 2 – 3 iterations of one month is sufficient to establish a new area. Lifting all processes to a Level 3 maturity takes 18 – 24 months.

Establishing SPICE in a new organisation typically requires 5 days of support per month for the duration of the project which varies based on the gap. Improving specific areas like a tool chain can be a 5 – 20 days project lasting a few months. We will tailor a support package to your need. Contact us to discuss your needs.

3) Training

Novotis typically provides introductory training to the whole team at the start of an improvement project. We start with our “Introduction to SPICE” or “Introduction to ISO 26262”.

During the course of an improvement program shorter trainings that goes into more depth in a specific are are used to support workshops and dialogue.

4) Quality assurance

During process improvement Novotis performs frequent, narrow scope, assessments to confirm progress. These assessments also works as audits that can comply with requirements for independent Quality Assurance in customer projects.

Novotis can also man the role as Quality Manager or Safety Manager in a project. Novotis has international experience from these roles at OEM’s and suppliers. Using an outside Quality Manager may be an effective initial solution for a small company.

About Novotis

About Novotis

Novotis is a proprietorship founded in 2004 by Mats Ramnefors. Mats has a 40 year background automotive.

Mats has worked in various positions dealing with requirements management, software development, testing and simulation. Mats was also process owner for the verification process at Volvo Cars with responsibility for the process, tools and advanced engineering. After leaving Volvo, Mats worked as VP of R&D in Volcano Communication Technologies with responsibility for a portfolio of embedded software and hardware projects.

In 2004 Mats started working as a consultant, initially focusing on SPICE assessments and project reviews. Today most of the work is in helping companies develop lean and effective processes meeting the requirements of demanding automotive customers.

Our Experience

  • Previously a Principal Spice Assessor
  • Performed ISO 2626 Safety Assessments and Safety Audits
  • Developed ISO 26262 Quality System for OEM and Tier 1 suppliers
  • Developed SPICE Quality System for Tier 1 and Tier 2 suppliers
  • Trainer on the official SPICE assessor training
  • Safety Manager for an OEM C-plattform
  • Safety support for ADAS Level 4 development
  • Support to several companies new to the automotive domain
  • Senior consultant to two major Japanese Tier 1 suppliers

Get in touch

Sends us a note with your questions or needs and we will get back to you.