What Documents Are Needed for STQC Certification & Approval

In today’s digitally driven environment, quality, security, and reliability of software and IT systems are more important than ever. This is where STQC Certification plays a vital role. STQC, which stands for Standardisation Testing and Quality Certification, is a government-backed framework that ensures software products, IT services, and systems meet defined quality and security benchmarks.

However, one of the most common challenges faced by organizations is understanding what documents are needed for STQC certification and approval. Incomplete or incorrect documentation often leads to delays, rejections, or increased STQC certification cost.

This blog provides a clear and practical explanation of the documents required for STQC certification, why each document matters, and how expert STQC certification consultants like ASC Group simplify the process.

Understanding STQC Certification

STQC certification is issued to evaluate and validate the quality, security, and performance of software products and IT systems. It is widely required for:

• Government projects

• Public sector undertakings

• Software vendors supplying to regulated sectors

• Organizations handling sensitive or critical data

An STQC certificate assures stakeholders that a product or system follows recognized quality and security standards.

Why Documentation Is Critical for STQC Approval

Documentation forms the foundation of the STQC certification process. It allows auditors and assessors to understand:

• How the software is designed and developed

• What security and quality controls are in place

• How risks, defects, and changes are managed

Missing or unclear documents often result in extended audits, repeated assessments, and higher STQC certification cost.

Key Documents Required for STQC Certification

Below is a detailed overview of the essential documents typically required during STQC certification and approval.

1. Organizational and Company Documents

These documents establish the legal identity and operational structure of the applicant organization.

Commonly required documents include:

• Certificate of incorporation or registration

• Company profile and business overview

• Organizational structure and roles

• Contact details of key personnel

These documents help assessors understand the organization’s governance and accountability framework.

2. Quality Management System (QMS) Documents

QMS documents demonstrate how quality is planned, monitored, and maintained.

Key documents include:

• Quality policy and quality objectives

• Process flow diagrams

• Standard operating procedures (SOPs)

• Internal audit reports

• Management review records

These documents are crucial to prove consistency and control in operations.

3. Software Development Lifecycle (SDLC) Documentation

STQC certification places strong emphasis on structured development practices.

Required SDLC documents often include:

• Software requirement specifications

• Design documents

• Development and coding standards

• Testing strategy and test plans

• Defect management records

These show that the software is developed in a systematic and controlled manner.

4. Information Security and Risk Management Documents

Security is a core focus of STQC certification.

Important documents include:

• Information security policy

• Risk assessment and risk treatment plans

• Access control and data protection policies

• Incident response and backup procedures

These documents ensure that systems are protected against security threats and data breaches.

5. Testing and Validation Records

Testing documents provide evidence that the product has been thoroughly validated.

Common requirements:

• Test cases and test results

• Performance testing reports

• Security testing and vulnerability assessment reports

• User acceptance testing records

These records help demonstrate product reliability and readiness.

6. Configuration and Change Management Documents

STQC assessors review how changes are controlled.

Required documents include:

• Configuration management plan

• Version control records

• Change request and approval logs

These documents ensure traceability and control over system updates.

7. Compliance and Legal Documents

Compliance documentation ensures adherence to regulatory and contractual requirements.

This may include:

• Data privacy compliance declarations

• Regulatory compliance statements

• Contractual or client-specific requirements

Such documents strengthen trust and accountability.

Common Documentation Mistakes to Avoid

Organizations often face delays due to:

• Incomplete or outdated documents

• Inconsistency between documented processes and actual practices

• Lack of version control

• Poorly written or generic policies

Engaging professional STQC certification services helps avoid these errors.

How STQC Certification Consultants Simplify Documentation

Preparing and validating documents can be time-consuming and complex. STQC certification consultants help by:

• Identifying applicable documentation requirements

• Creating and reviewing documents as per STQC guidelines

• Conducting gap analysis before formal assessment

• Supporting audit preparation and corrective actions

This reduces rework, saves time, and controls STQC certification cost.

How ASC Group Helps with STQC Certification

ASC Group offers end-to-end STQC certification services designed to make the approval process smooth and predictable.

ASC Group’s Support Includes

• Documentation assessment and preparation

• Gap analysis against STQC requirements

• Audit readiness and assessment support

• Ongoing advisory until certification approval

ASC Group focuses on clarity, accuracy, and practical compliance rather than unnecessary complexity.

Why Choose ASC Group as Your STQC Certification Consultant

Organizations choose ASC Group because of:

• Experienced STQC certification consultants

• Clear and structured documentation approach

• Reduced certification timelines and cost efficiency

• Personalized support for every project

ASC Group ensures that documentation not only meets certification requirements but also strengthens internal processes.

Conclusion

Obtaining an STQC certificate requires more than just technical capability—it demands well-structured and accurate documentation. Understanding what documents are needed for STQC certification and approval is the first step toward a successful outcome.

With the right preparation and expert guidance, organizations can avoid delays, control STQC certification cost, and achieve certification with confidence. Partnering with experienced consultants like ASC Group ensures a smooth, compliant, and stress-free STQC certification journey.