In the constantly evolving automotive industry, clear processes and quality standards are crucial. Automotive SPICE® (ASPICE), an internationally recognized standard for improving software and system development, plays an important role in this. Choosing the right ASPICE level depends on many factors and can be challenging. This article explains the different ASPICE® levels and how Melster Consulting GmbH supports companies on their way to a successful assessment.
Automotive SPICE® (ASPICE) is an internationally recognized standard that defines the processes for software and system development in the automotive industry. Companies in this field are often faced with the question of which ASPICE level they should aim for in order to be competitive and meet the requirements of their customers. This article introduces various ASPICE levels and explains which level is suitable for which company context.
ASPICE is an acronym for "Automotive Software Process Improvement and Capability dEtermination" and was developed to evaluate and improve the processes and capabilities in the automotive industry. The standard aims to increase the quality, safety and efficiency of software development. ASPICE® defines five maturity levels or levels that represent the progress from Level 0 (lowest level of maturity) to Level 5 (highest level of maturity).
Companies at this level have no documented processes or work in an unstructured manner. They do not meet the basic requirements and are not competitive. This level is not acceptable in the automotive industry.
At this level, companies implement their processes, but they are not yet optimized. It is a first step towards standardization and quality control.
Level 2 companies have structured processes at project level that are documented and controlled. The quality of products and services is at an acceptable level, but there is still room for improvement. Level 2 is often the minimum required by large OEMs (Original Equipment Manufacturers) and Tier 1 suppliers.
At Level 3, the processes are well defined and standardized. The company has the ability to ensure the quality of its products in a repeatable manner and to manage risks. Some automobile manufacturers require their suppliers to achieve Level 3 for all follow-up projects after the initial order.
Level 4 companies implement advanced quality and process controls. They use quantitative methods to monitor and optimize performance. This level is particularly relevant for companies that develop safety-critical systems.
Level 5 represents the highest level of maturity and control. Companies are able to implement continuous improvements and optimize their processes. This level is relevant for companies that must meet the highest quality and safety standards.
Choosing the right ASPICE level depends on several factors, including:
Choosing the right ASPICE level is not an easy task and requires careful analysis of company goals, customer requirements and industry standards. In many cases, moving to a higher level is a gradual process that brings long-term benefits. Continuously improving processes and increasing quality are crucial to succeed in the dynamic automotive industry.