## 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 Checklists Checklists are defined for reference points. The content of reference points is concretised in the checklist. For repetitive (generic) reference points, the checklist can vary depending on the design progress state. The checklist represents a reference point planning tool. Checklist entries can be concretised, extended or deleted if necessary to conform with specific project requirements. The content entries are marked in the checklist document using completion status flags (S for started, A for agreed and C for closed). MEPRO Process Model The MEPRO process model is a graphical representation of the process scenario, and it is used to arrange the reference points in order. It is based on the "VDA Recommendation on Project Process Planning". In line with the VDA recommendation, a project is structured into seven process milestones. The sequence between two milestones will subsequently be referred to as a project phase. Task elements are allocated to project phases. Product Design Process The product development process extends from the manufacturer's RFQ (request for quotation) phase through quotation submission, concept development, design and pilot production, and continues right up to release to and start of mass production. The product development process is regarded as an integrated product development process. It includes the activities of various company units, which are required for product development, for example engineering, sales/marketing, quality assurance, purchasing, logistics, etc.