Published: 2008-12-09
ISBN:
ISSN: 1650-3686 (print), 1650-3740 (online)
Purpose: “Failure-prevention Teams” and “Kaizen-Teams” are used after the “Start of production” in order to improve deficits in quality and to reduce costs and production times in the automotive industry. This paper shows the connection between “classical failures removal” and “waste avoidance” and why this should be done already during the product development process.
Methodology/approach: The abstract definition “failure” is extended. Building on that a combined application of the methods “3P” (Production Preparation Process) and “Failure Mode and Effect Analysis” (FMEA) is developed and verified. Besides; an approach to measure the benefits of combining the 3P and FMEA method is given.
Findings: The results imply that 3P and FMEA are complementary approaches and once they are combined; their capabilities to avoid failures are enhanced. The capability and maturity level of the organisation determines the success of using this method.
Originality/value: This paper redefines the abstract definition “failure”. It shows that a great optimisation potential is available in the product development process and how it could made useful.
