## 2.2 Definitions Reference points: Coordination points, with defined content, between manufacturer and supplier in the product development process. A reference point serves to synchronise the product development process between manufacturers and suppliers. Reference points support the planning and coordination of development projects on the basis of process models. Reference points should be planned for and used to prepare for and ensure adherence to schedule milestones. Reference points essentially are defined by setting goals and content or input/output entries. Checklists help concretise the content of reference points and adapt it to the various development tasks and stages. Various activities are required to implement a reference point, for example to prepare and evaluate input or generate output. Reference points can occur once (determinate reference points) or more than once (generic reference points) in the development process. Since the term "milestone" is open to various interpretations regarding its "range", reference points can also be regarded as a particular manifestation of milestones. The characteristic attributes of reference points are: Reference points are based on process models Reference points are described using input and output agreements Reference points act to prepare for and secure adherence to schedule milestones