Where Do We Start Our Improvement Program? Business Level Failure Mode and Effects Analysis with Methodology and Case Studies

This book provides guidance in answering answer the following questions: 1) Where should we start with our improvement effort? 2) What improvement tools best apply to the opportunities we identify? 3) Which ones provide the greatest return for the least amount of investment? Most engineers are familiar with failure modes and effects analysis (FMEA), a technique for improving machinery and equipment reliability by analyzing its functional requirements, failure modes and effects, and then taking appropriate action better manage those potential failures. However, in using these principles, this book does not focus on a given machine and its failure modes, but rather focuses on the business, specifically analyzing a production line or process at an operating to determine where the major business opportunities are relative to the gross profit associated with improved production, or reducing any extraordinary costs. The purpose of this book is to illustrate the methodology, and then provide numerous examples of how the technique can be applied in varying circumstances, helping you prioritize your efforts.