Quality Methods

A process that is off target, too variable or out of control can result in delays, rework or defects, which in turn often lead to higher costs and unsatisfied customers. Because of this, it’s important to understand and quantify the sources of variation within a process.

The purpose of this module is to provide a broad set of tools and a framework of statistical thinking that you can use to identify and manage sources of process variation.

Estimated time to complete this module: 4 to 5 hours

Statistical Process Control

• Introduction to Control Charts
• Individual and Moving Range Charts
• Common Cause versus Special Cause Variation
• Testing for Special Causes
• X-bar and R and X-bar and S Charts
• Rational Subgrouping
• 3-Way Control Charts
• Control Charts with Phases

Process Capability

• The Voice of the Customer
• Process Capability Indices
• Short- and Long-Term Estimates of Capability
• Understanding Capability for Process Improvement
• Estimating Process Capability: An Example
• Calculating Capability for Nonnormal Data
• Estimating Process Capability for Many Variables
• Identifying Poorly Performing Processes
• A View from Industry

Measurement System Studies

• What is a Measurement Systems Analysis (MSA)?
• Language and Terminology
• Designing a Measurement System Study
• Designing and Conducting an MSA
• Analyzing an MSA
• Studying Measurement System Accuracy
• Improving the Measurement Process