CORE SPICE aims to enhance project management efficiency while ensuring compliance with automotive systems development standards such as ISO 26262 functional safety. A shift towards a more collaborative, project-centric approach positions it between Levels 1 and 2 on the ASPICE maturity ladder—the sweet spot in the process quality compliance landscape.
CORE SPICE correlates with Automotive SPICE and other standards like ISO 26262 by focusing on the essential elements required for automotive systems and software development projects. It aims to simplify compliance with functional safety standards and improve project management efficiency.
The following summary is intended to clarify the core goals of CORE SPICE, as summarized in our article.
CORE SPICE Objectives: CORE SPICE is designed as a lean project management concept primarily aimed at efficiently supporting the ISO 26262 standard for functional safety. It aspires to match approximately the second level of maturity in Automotive SPICE, positioning itself as a “state-of-the-art” project coaching model.
Effectiveness: While Automotive SPICE is a quality control measure, CORE SPICE advocates for a cooperative approach within project organizations. Conformity is achieved through active project support for safety-relevant project aspects with the quality role of Team Capability Coach (TCC) – a role that ensures relevant compliance.
Hybrid Model: CORE SPICE represents a hybrid model, balancing traditional ASPICE processes and classic agility. It acknowledges the limitations imposed by ISO 26262 on unrestricted agility. Instead, it supports development concepts that enable the planning of automotive projects, such as long-term feature plans up to the start of production (SOP), while emphasizing task and traceability automation and accelerating the pace of development activities. A standard set of project roles to coordinate the development teams helps alleviate the question of team responsibilities in an automotive development project.
Project Coaching Approach: CORE SPICE is a project coaching approach that helps implement ISO 26262 and cybersecurity requirements, which is critical in the automotive industry, where software has become a core business. It offers a solution for ASPICE fatigue, especially among smaller vehicle suppliers, by providing a framework focused on traceability, project goals, and project outcomes. Thus, it enhances project efficiency and agility and enables a faster response to changes in ongoing projects. The CORE SPICE roles of project role of Team Capability Coach (TCC, for increasing quality compliance) and Project Coach (for improving project management effectiveness) are the critical enablers for the efficiency boost in projects.
Compatibility and Integration: CORE SPICE is inspired by the ASPICE on capability level 2 while covering safety-relevant aspects to ensure that a CORE SPICE-compatible project can be ISO-26262 up to ASIL-D compliant.
Not an ASPICE Replacement: CORE SPICE is not intended to replace Automotive SPICE. Instead, it is a project management framework that supports ASPICE compliance. It emphasizes team effectiveness and efficiency in safety-relevant projects focused on system and software development in the automotive sector.
CORE SPICE, therefore, correlates with Automotive SPICE by providing a complementary framework aimed at simplifying and enhancing the project management and development process, especially in safety-relevant automotive projects. It bridges the gap between Automotive SPICE’s rigorous process orientation and the need for more agile and efficient project management practices.
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I am a project manager (Project Manager Professional, PMP), a Project Coach, a management consultant, and a book author. I have worked in the software industry since 1992 and as a manager consultant since 1998. Please visit my United Mentors home page for more details. Contact me on LinkedIn for direct feedback on my articles.
With over 20 years of experience in the automotive industry, I have honed my expertise in driving assistant systems, strategy development, and project management. As the founder of martozi, I consult and assist companies in sales, business development, and engineering services. My technical prowess enables me to comprehend intricate correlations, ensuring optimum solutions for established firms and startups.
Throughout my career, I've been at the forefront of developing cutting-edge software, recruiting top-tier talent, and forging strategic partnerships. My accomplishments include setting up successful teams, executing high-stakes projects, and fostering growth in automotive startups. My association with the Volkswagen Group and my vast network complements my comprehensive understanding of the industry.
In addition to my corporate pursuits, I impart knowledge as a Lecturer at the University of Applied Sciences Künzelsau, ensuring the next generation of engineers benefits from real-world insights.
With extensive experience in the automotive sector, I am a seasoned professional dedicated to enhancing management systems. My consulting approach is rooted in a deep understanding of organizational needs, leading to sustainable improvements. My project management acumen spans from initial scope definition to the final stages of project closure, ensuring seamless transitions and impactful implementations. A firm believer in the power of coaching, I emphasize the importance of involving practitioners in process improvements, ensuring that changes are both comprehended and aptly executed. My expertise also encompasses gap analyses, process modeling, and adherence to industry standards such as ISO 9001, ISO 27001, Automotive SPICE, and PMI. With a rich background that includes roles in gasoline injection systems development, sales, quality management, and consulting, and as a certified Project Management Professional (PMP)® and Competent Assessor for Automotive SPICE®, I bring a wealth of knowledge and a commitment to excellence in every endeavor.
