What is the Software SOI and how to pass EASA / FAA Audits?

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SOIs are Stages of Involvements and are the minimum gates that a Certification Authority (EASA or FAA) gets involved in reviewing a system or sub-system.

With respect to Software there are certain guidelines to know for successful results showing DO-178C compliance.

Under FAA Review:

  • Software
    • Order 8110.49: SW Approval Guidelines
    • SW Job Aid: Review Guidelines

Under EASA Review:

  • Software
    • EASA CM – SWCEH – 002: SW Approval Guidelines

General notes to consider:

  1. 80% similar process between FAA / EASA
  2. FAA uses DERs to assist or perform the Audits
  3. EASA uses Panel 10 (experts of SW & AEH)
  4. FAA uses Job Aids to harmonize reviews via  checklists

General Guidelines and Timing of each SOI:

Software SOI 1:

  • Show Compliance to Tables A-1, A-8, A-9, A-10
  • Entry Criteria: FAA/EASA: When initial software planning process is complete

Software SOI 2:

  • Show Compliance: Tables A-2, A-3, A-4, A-5, A-6, A-8, A-9, A-10
  • Entry Criteria:
    • SOI #1 Actions Addressed
    • FAA: at least 50% of data (i.e. REQ, design & code) are Complete, Traced & Reviewed.
    • EASA: at least 75% of data (i.e. REQ, design & code) are Complete, Traced & Reviewed.

Software SOI 3:

  • Show Compliance: Tables A-7, A-8, A-9, A-10
  • Entry Criteria:
    • SOI #2 Actions Addressed
    • FAA: at least 50% of verification and test data are Complete, Traced & Reviewed.
    • EASA: at least 75% of verification and test data are Complete, Traced & Reviewed.

Software SOI 4:

  • Show Compliance: All Tables A-1 through A-10
  • Entry Criteria (FAA/EASA):
    • Final software build is completed.
    • Software verification is completed.
    • Software conformity review has been conducted.
    • Software product is ready for formal system approval.

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