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The 8D Problem Solving Process

The 8 Disciplines (8D) process is a business problem management tool. It is the generic problem solving process used across many different
industries, particularly automotive and aerospace. It incorporates all of the key aspects of problem management:
Containment of the problem
Root cause analysis
Problem correction
Problem prevention
When the 8D process has been applied, the result is a report showing how and why the solution was arrived at. It is common for organisations to
demand 8D reports from their suppliers if an issue has been found in a supplied product or service.
Discipline 0 (D0): Summary
It is important to correctly name the problem to be tackled, this allows teams to easily communicate about the problem solving task. A short problem
statement to summarise the issue should be defined, this statement will be used to name the 8D report.
Discipline 1 (D1): Form the team
This is the first step of the 8D process. This step defines the the 8D team. The team should be cross-functional and should include the process
owner and other key stakeholders. The names of the members along with their role and skills are recorded.
Discipline 2 (D2): Describe the problem
This step involves a detailed assessment of the problem. Record all relevant information, be clear and objective. Consider including the following
details:
Identity of the customer
Description of the customer application
Device information (device, package, batch number, date code, etc.)
When, where the problem was encountered
Description of the failure mode and failure rate
Discipline 3 (D3): Contain the problem
Define the immediate actions required to prevent the issue from getting worse. Containment actions are short term and may be costly. Sometimes
no containment is required. Examples include:
Quarantine batches of stock
Temporary inspection stages
Temporary training
Confessions
Product recalls
Discipline 4 (D4): Identify the root cause
Perform failure analysis and investigation, determine the root cause of the problem. Detail the root cause analysis that has been conducted.
A detailed description of the actual failure mechanism should be given to show that the failure has been fully understood. Use standard analysis
tools like Pareto, Ishikawa diagrams and 'It is / it is not' lists.
Tools should be selected in accordance with the particular problem requirements. Every problem is different.
Discipline 5 (D5): Define permanent corrective actions
Identify all possible corrective actions to address the root cause of the problem. Use brainstorming techniques like Six hats and Random word if
required. Provide a rationale for each proposed corrective action.
Grade proposed solutions for cost and suitability. Perform FMEAs as required to help identify pitfalls and risks.
Discipline 6 (D6): Solution deployment
Define and record the implementation plan. Propose completion dates and allocate owners of tasks.
Data showing that the corrective actions have been effective should be captured and referenced here.
Discipline 7 (D7): Preventative measures
Actions necessary to prevent the same problem from arising again are defined here. Consider the following:
Updating the control plan
Updating the company standards and procedures
Updating the audit plan
Adjusting KPIs to identify the problem
Consider applying the problem solution on other products, processes and service delivery.
Discipline 8 (D8): Congratulate the team
The last step of the 8D problem solving process is to congratulate the team and publicise success. This generates support for improvement work
throughout the entire organisation.

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