Failure Modes and Effects Analysis (FMEA): Description, When to Use, Procedure, Example, and Considerations

Failure modes and effects analysis (FMEA) is a step-by-step approach for identifying all possible failures in a design, a manufacturing or assembly process, or a final product or service. “Failure modes” means the ways, or modes, in which something might fail. Failures are any errors or defects, especially ones that affect the customer, and can be potential or actual. “Effects analysis” refers to studying the consequences, or effects, of those failures.

This succinct mini e-book provides a perfect introduction to FMEA, as well as a comprehensive step-by-step procedure for completing one. Also included are a short example of an FMEA and things to consider before, during, and after going through the FMEA process.