API Spec Q2 1st edition was published in December 2011 by API. As the first international (QMS) Quality Management Standard for service supply organizations offered by the API, the main focus of this version was on defect prevention, reduction of wastage and reliability of services. This standard specifies requirements of (QMS) quality management system for an organization to reveal its potential to frequently provide services that meet customer, legal & other applicable requirements.

API Spec Q2 specification promotes the integration of a process approach into the application of specific clauses when developing, implementing and improving the effectiveness of a QMS. It can be used by internal and external organization, including certification bodies, to assess the organization's ability to meet customer and legal requirements applicable to the service sector.