CQI-8 training is a hands-on programme built on
AIAG‘s Layered Process Audit Guideline, for teams that will apply it.
Layered process audit (LPA) is the method of auditing the same production point by different management levels, at different frequencies, with short checklists. The aim is to verify that standard work is genuinely applied on every shift.
Why does it matter?
A classic
internal audit is done a few times a year and evaluates the system as a whole. LPA works at a daily rhythm, with a narrow scope, on the shop floor.
The power of the method comes from repetition and the layers: the shift supervisor looks at the same points every day, the department manager once a week, the plant manager once a month. This ensures both that deviations are caught quickly and that management stays in touch with the shop floor.
The most frequent mistake in practice is turning the LPA into a long checklist. An effective LPA must be short, targeted and repeatable.
Who should attend?
- Production and quality managers
- Shift supervisors and shop-floor leaders
- Quality engineers
- Continuous improvement teams
- Internal auditors
There are no prerequisites.
Training Content
Fundamentals
- The purpose of LPA and its difference from a classic audit
- The layer logic and frequency design
- Its relationship with IATF 16949 and customer requirements
Programme design
- Determining the points and questions to be audited
- Writing short and effective question lists
- Setting up the layer and frequency matrix
- Responsibility assignments and the follow-up mechanism
Execution and follow-up
- Conducting the shop-floor audit
- Recording findings and rapid action
- Corrective action and effectiveness verification
- Measuring programme performance
Practical exercises
Participants apply the method using sample scenarios. In in-house programmes the exercises are run on your own processes and data.
Learning Outcomes
- Designing an LPA programme
- Writing effective question lists
- Setting up the layer and frequency structure
- Managing finding follow-up
- Measuring programme effectiveness
Duration and Participation Options
Duration: 1–2 days in open-enrolment programmes. In in-house programmes, set according to the scope and depth of the practical work.
Participation type: Open enrolment or in-house.
Training method: In person (at your organization or in our training room), live online, on-demand recording.
Obtaining the manuals: AIAG publications are copyright-protected and are not provided as part of the training. Participants need access to the current edition.
Dates: Set according to demand.
Certificate of Attendance
Participants who complete the training receive a certificate of attendance. The certificate includes the participant’s name, training scope, date and duration. It can be used as evidence of competence in your assessor competence records and in customer audits.
Related Trainings
Beyond Training: Implementation Support
- Deploying the method at your organization
- Preparing the templates and checklists
- Shop-floor implementation and effectiveness verification
- Review of your existing practice
- Preparation before the customer audit
You can make use of our
consulting services in every area where support is needed.
Frequently Asked Questions About CQI-8 Training
What is the difference between LPA and an internal audit?
An internal audit is done a few times a year and evaluates the system as a whole. LPA is carried out at a daily rhythm, with a narrow scope, on the shop floor; it verifies that standard work is applied on every shift.
What does a layer mean?
It is the auditing of the same production point by different management levels at different frequencies. For example, the shift supervisor looks at the same points every day, the department manager once a week, the plant manager once a month.
How long should the question list be?
Short. The most frequent mistake in practice is turning the LPA into a long checklist; this leads to the audit not being done, or being done carelessly.
Is LPA mandatory?
CQI-8 is a guideline. However, many OEMs require the application of layered process audits under their customer-specific requirements; we recommend checking your contracts.
How long does CQI-8 training take?
Open-enrolment programmes take 1 day. In in-house programmes, 2 days are recommended if a programme will be designed for your own line.
Do you provide the guideline?
No. AIAG publications are copyright-protected and are not provided as part of the training.