TTWCI FIELD GUIDE / Automotive & supply chain
Automotive launch readiness: six checks before the next gate
A launch dashboard should explain what is proven, what is at risk and who will close the gap. A green status alone is not evidence of readiness.
By TTW Consulting International · Published 13 September 2026
Use this checklist in a management discussion or a short observation of the work. Record the evidence, the gap and the person who can act. It is a starting point for assessment; the right response depends on your operating conditions.
Define the decision
Identify the next launch gate and the evidence the customer requires. Distinguish a development milestone, a production approval and stable output at the intended rate. Assign an owner to each missing item.
Verify supplier capacity
Review actual demonstrated output, product mix, staffing, tooling, maintenance and material assumptions. Confirm that a supplier’s capacity commitment is supported by the intended process and available resources.
Check quality evidence together
Review relevant APQP and PPAP status, measurement capability, process risks and control plans against applicable customer requirements. A completed document should correspond to the process that will run.
Trace critical material
Map the parts that can stop the line and the supplier tiers that influence them. Look at lead times, replenishment, change control and recovery options. Large inventory totals can still hide a shortage of the specific part needed.
Prepare containment and escalation
Agree how suspect product is identified, who can release it and when an unresolved issue reaches program leadership. Establish an action owner, due date and objective completion evidence for each serious risk.
Test the recovery plan
Review whether actions improve demonstrated output, first-pass yield and schedule attainment. Verify changes at the source and update standards. Report remaining risks clearly before the next volume commitment.
Related guidance
These sources provide industry or technology context. The checklist and implementation recommendations are TTWCI’s synthesis.