How do I select a functional Safety expert?

Overview of Selecting a Functional Safety Expert

When it comes to selecting a functional safety and certification organization, there are many to choose from. Providers can vary in size, from small specialist companies offering niche services all the way to large companies offering integrated product development programs. So, with such a variety of options to choose from, what aspects should you evaluate when making this important decision?

Does the functional safety expert build quality into your product development program?

Quality, undoubtably, should be one of the key aspects to consider when comparing certification providers. Working with an organization that has an established and transparent culture of quality, where processes are constantly reviewed and improved, and which continuously strives to be the best, will provide you with a foundation for success. Find out about the organization’s track record: a consistency of successful projects is a good signpost that future projects will be successful too.  You may want to look online for the certifier’s current certificates.

Is the functional safety expert experienced in your product or industry?

You will want to select a functional safety provider with experience and expertise in your product or industry. This is particularly important if you are looking for a provider that can provide solutions to problems in real-time. Ideally, there will be a mix of experienced engineers and technicians, innovative and cutting-edge technology technicians, and professional project managers who work together to achieve the best possible results for your project.

Does the provider have the capabilities your product development program needs?

It may sound obvious, but it’s imperative to find out whether the functional safety certifying organization will be able to provide you with all the services you need for your product development program. What’s critical here is not to accept things at face value.

Confirm what activities are included in each service to make sure both parties are on the same page. Also, you might like to consider whether all activities and services are provided directly by the provider’s employees, or via sub-contractors. Having all the testing and certification services ‘under one roof’ has the significant advantage of helping reduce timelines by ensuring technical rigor and enable more efficient project management.

Communication

Moving beyond the more technical criteria, communication is a crucial factor when selecting a testing and certification provider. A healthy relationship between the contractor and provider is pivotal for the successful completion of your functional safety testing program to time and budget. Ultimately the provider you select will be an extension of your team, so you need to be confident that you can work together as such.

Timelines

Bringing your product to market can be a complex process that can take many years to complete. The rewards for success can be huge, however delays can be equally costly.  When evaluating functional safety testing and certification providers for their ability to deliver against timelines, look for a proven track record of meeting milestones and project completion. If you are considering an integrated product approach with one organization, look to evaluate the experience and expertise of the project manager who will run your program, as their role will be pivotal. Ideally, the TIC should provide real-life examples and case studies of successful, truly integrated programs they have completed.