Problem solving (IATF only)
Plain-language summary
One documented problem-solving process (with defined approaches for different issue types and scales) covering containment through verified effectiveness and systemic prevention — using the customer's format where they prescribe one.
What the clause is really asking
The process must include: defined approaches per problem type/scale, containment and interim actions, root cause analysis (methodology, analysis, results), systemic corrective action implementation, verification of effectiveness, and review/update of affected documented information (PFMEA, control plan). Customer-prescribed formats/systems are used where required.
What auditors look for
Auditors sample 8Ds/A3s against the full chain — the two classic gaps being verification of effectiveness (D7 hollow or missing) and the document-update step (PFMEA/control plan untouched after the fix). Customer-format compliance gets checked against CSRs.
Typical evidence
Documented problem-solving procedure; completed 8D/A3 reports; FMEA/control plan revision links from problems; customer portal submissions where required.
How to comply — recommendations
Adopt 8D as the single house method with a one-page version for small problems. Hard-gate two steps in the form: 'effectiveness verified by/on' and 'FMEA & control plan updated? rev:' — those two fields fix the findings auditors most often write.
Common nonconformities
Root cause stopping at 'operator error'; D7/effectiveness never done; FMEA and control plan not updated after problems; customer-required format ignored.
Related clauses
Builds on ISO 9001 10.2 (see Example row); links IATF 6.1.2.1
In the book
Chapter 10 — Improvement — Closing Loops for a Living treats this clause family in full: what it is really asking, what auditors look for, the evidence that satisfies, how to make it work on a real floor, and where companies stumble. This IATF requirement is covered in the Automotive Edition, in the same six blocks as the ISO clause around it.
Resources for this clause
- Article8D problem solving explained: the 8 disciplines, root cause analysis and a free template
- Toolkit · $298D Problem-Solving ToolkitThe full 8D method in one working workbook: a D0–D8 report with Is/Is-Not, the three-legged 5-Why and an Ishikawa canvas built in — you fill the fields, not the theory.
- Bundle · $49Problem-Solver PackSolve the problem, then prove it stays solved: the full D0–D8 8D workbook to find and fix the root cause, plus the SPC Control Chart Toolkit to keep the process in control afterwards.
- Free downloadFast Response TrackerLog every open concern and drive it to closure — a live board that shows what's open, overdue, and which 8D step each issue is on.
- Free masterclass · ~14 min8D Problem-Solving MasterclassAll nine disciplines D0–D8 in plain English — three-legged root cause analysis, Is/Is-Not, Ishikawa and the 5-Why, plus the mistakes that get 8D reports rejected.
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Qlause provides interpretive guidance only and is not a substitute for the standard. Refer to your licensed copy of the relevant standard for the authoritative text.