This paper discusses the integration of design, inspection and quality management systems, and in particular the standard for the exchange of product model data (STEP) and the proposed STEP application protocol (AP) for inspection process planning (AP219). Relatively little progress has so far been made towards development of this AP. The need for a concerted industry led initiative to adopt and continue the work completed to date is suggested. The goal of such a consortium would be to develop and promote the use of AP219 and software tools to support its adoption and implementation