The Quality Manager Self-Learning Program serves as preparation and a prerequisite for the practical training sessions “Operational Quality Manager” and “QM System Architect”. It uses web-based training (WBT) to provide the theoretical foundations for core quality management tasks and their practical application. During the practical sessions, the focus is on practicing and applying these core tasks.

The WBT consists of 18 modules covering various topics – from ISO standards to quality tools and communication skills. The duration of each WBT ranges from 15 minutes to up to 4 hours, depending on the topic. Completing the entire self-learning program requires about four days. You can complete the modules at your own pace and retain access to them via the VDA QMC Academy during and after the practical sessions.

To participate in the practical training, you must successfully complete all web-based training modules with a minimum score of 80%.

The Quality Manager Self-Learning Program covers the following topics:

1. ISO 9000
2. ISO 9001
3. ISO 9004
4. ISO 19011
5. IATF 16949
6. Basic knowledge of processes
7. Advanced module of processes
8. SWOT diagram
9. Turtle diagram
10. Seven Tools of Quality (Q7)
11. Field Failure Analysis
12. Customer Specific Requirements
13. Quality planning
14. Quality costs
15. Management reviews
16. Product liability
17. Communication, moderation, and presentation as a Quality Manager
18. Get to know Formfroh GmbH respectively Fröstel AG.

The 18 web-based training modules prepare participants to apply the core tasks of an “Operational Quality Manager” or a “QM System Architect” during the practical training sessions.

Employees in the automotive industry that are responsible for quality management or quality management systems, or those preparing to take on such roles.

To complete the Quality Manager qualification, including certification, you must follow these steps:

1. Quality Manager Self-Learning Program

18 web-based training modules as preparation for the practical sessions

Duration: approx. 3-4 days

2. Practical sessions “Operational Quality Manager” and/or “QM System Architect”

4 days of practical training

Quality Manager – QM System Architect – Qualification
Quality Manager – Operational Quality Manager – Qualification

3. Examination “Operational Quality Manager” and/or “QM System Architect”

1 day examination

Quality Manager – QM System Architect – Examination
Quality Manager – Operational Quality Manager – Examination

Note: You can choose between the two training paths “Operational Quality Manager” or “QM System Architect”. However, it is also possible to complete both training paths one after the other.

Prerequisite for the “Operational Quality Manager” training path:

• Participation in an auditor qualification based on DIN EN ISO 19011 is recommended (e.g. Qualification as VDA Auditor (ID 104)).
• Participation in a training course “Automotive Core Tools” is recommended (e.g. Automotive Core Tools (ACT) for Quality Management in the Automotive Industry (ID 415)).

Prerequisite for the “QM System Architect” training path:

• Participation in an auditor qualification based on DIN EN ISO 19011 is recommended (e.g. qualification as VDA Auditor (ID 104)).
• Participation in a training course “Automotive Core Tools” is recommended (e.g. Automotive Core Tools (ACT) for Quality Management in the Automotive Industry (ID 415)).

The following standards/guidelines are mandatory for participation (preferably as PDF documents):

• ISO 9000
• ISO 9001
• ISO 9004
• ISO 19011
• IATF 16949
• VDA volume “Customer Specific Requirements”
• VDA volume “Field Failure Analysis”

The ISO standards can be purchased for a fee via the DIN Media webshop. The other accompanying material is available in our VDA QMC webshop.

The qualification as a Quality Manager in both possible training paths focuses on the respective core tasks. Not all topics can be covered in depth. For deeper insights, the following training courses are recommended:

• ISO 9001 – Compact (ID 105)
• IATF 16949 – 1st/2nd Party Auditor – Qualification (ID 211)
• VDA 6.3:2023 – Process Auditor – Qualification (ID 381)
• VDA Field Failure Analysis for Users (ID 632)
• VDA 2 – Production Process and Product Approval (ID 410)
• FMEA according to AIAG-VDA – Basics (ID 442)
• Problem Solving in 8 Disciplines (8D) with Elements of the Standardized Process for Handling Customer Complaints for Users (ID 419)
• Maturity Level Assurance for New Parts (ID 602)
• Product Safety & Conformity Representative (ID 503)