Formal modelling approaches for integrated quality-management systems in delocalised enterprises: A taxonomy of requirements

This paper provides a description of the assortment of functional requirements for an ideal formal modelling approach (FMA) to support the analysis, design and operation of quality management system (QMS). Particular attention is devoted to integration and to the new organisational delocalisation aspects, also recently experienced in the automotive sector. Based on a wide literature search, a taxonomy consisting of a set of five categories of functional requirements was built, useful in defining appropriate FMAs for different application purposes of QMSs. Formal modelling concepts and strategies are also discussed. A general evaluation of a number of classes of approaches available is also given.