How Analyzing a Process Can Improve Quality

Mapping a process can lead to a higher quality product.

Process analysis is used to determine several things about a process. Process cost, value added steps, non-value added steps and informal tasks are just a few of the measurements determined through process analysis. The quality of the product created by the process can be affected by any one or all of the other measurements determined through process analysis.

Non Value Added Steps

Determing the non-value added steps in a process can be very difficult.

One of the outcomes of analyzing a process is detemining all of the non-value added steps. The non-value added steps are those steps which increase the cost of the product but not the actual value of the product. These steps should be removed from the process whenever possible, thus lowering production costs and reducing the chance for errors to be made.

Defects

Determining variability is the number one key to reducing defects.

Process analysis also helps determine the informal steps performed in the process. These informal steps cause variability that is not documented. Variability can cause defects that are very difficult to track. Removing the informal steps from a process reduces the chance for defects in the product.

Manufacturability

Simplifing a process allows for easier manufacturability.

Analyzing a process can also create improvements in the way a product is manufactured. By increasing the manufacturability of a product, the chance for errors is reduced, resulting in a better quality product. As well the product becomes easier to produce thus allowing more money to be spent on increasing the form, fit and function of the product.

References

• "NetMBA Business Knowledge Center" Analyzing a process
• "Juran" Six Sigma and improved quality