Creating a Release

In the PPAP process, the Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (FMEA) must often be released as part of the documentation package. Creating a release ensures the document version is formally approved and traceable.  


Purpose 

Creating a release establishes an official version of the FMEA that is locked for change control. This is required for: 

  • PPAP submissions

  • Quality audits

  • Customer documentation

  • Version traceability


A released FMEA typically includes metadata such as revision number, release date, and approval information.


Prerequisites

Before creating a release:

  • The FMEA must be completed and reviewed

  • All recommended actions must be addressed or documented

  • Required approvals may be needed

  • The correct revision level must be set



How it Works

Follow these steps to configure the document headers and create a release for the FMEA worksheet.

1. Open the FMEA Worksheet

Navigate to the required FMEA worksheet and open the document you want to release.

2. Start the Release Process

In the toolbar, click Create Release and select Configure Document Headers.

Alternatively, after saving edits to a worksheet, you can click Save and select Mark as a Release. This will automatically open the Configure Document Headers drawer.

3. Configure Document Headers

When creating a release, you will be prompted to configure Document Headers for all form types. This is required because each form type will be included in a ZIP file when the release is created.


The Document Headers configuration is available for the following form types:

  • Process Flow

  • PFMEA

  • Control Plan

  • DFMEA


Use this option to define or update the header information that will appear in the exported documents.


Note: The Document Headers option will be disabled when the worksheet is in CORE View.


4. Verify and Save Header Configuration

Review the configured header fields and confirm that all required information is correct.
Click Save to apply the configuration.

5. Continue with the Create Release Process

After saving the header configuration, continue with the Create Release workflow.

6. Specify Release Details

Enter the required release information:

  • Release Name

  • Date

  • Notes


You will also be required to confirm that the Document Headers have been configured before proceeding.


7. Create the Release

Click Create to generate the release.

Once the release is complete:

  1. Download and open the ZIP file.

  2. Verify that all worksheets are included.

  3. Confirm that all worksheet data and configured headers appear correctly in the exported documents.