An audit should confirm that the factory can repeatedly reproduce the approved sample, not only that it owns a machine. Follow one actual product through the process.
Trace raw material to shipment
Select a shipped lot and verify links to material certificate, issue, equipment, operator, heat treatment, finishing and inspection.
Review setup and first-piece control
Confirm how parameters are approved, who releases first pieces, how changeovers are rechecked and how nonconforming parts are isolated.
Verify inspection methods
Observe force, torque and complex geometry checks. Review fixture operation, calibration, environment and alignment with drawing requirements.
Check change and corrective-action closure
Understand notification for material, equipment, process and subcontractor changes. Sample a past issue and verify cause, action and effectiveness.
References
This article is informed by public standards catalogues and industry engineering resources. Project values should be confirmed by drawings, material certificates and sample validation.