How do you apply the 8D method for failure analysis?

2 Form a team

The second step of the 8D method is to form a team of people who have the knowledge, skills, and authority to solve the problem. You need to select team members from different functions, departments, or disciplines that are involved or impacted by the problem. You also need to assign roles and responsibilities to each team member, such as leader, facilitator, data collector, or expert. Forming a team helps you to leverage diverse perspectives, expertise, and resources to address the problem collaboratively.

3 Implement containment actions

The third step of the 8D method is to implement containment actions that temporarily prevent the problem from spreading or affecting the customers. You need to identify and isolate the defective products, systems, or processes that cause the problem and replace them with acceptable ones. You also need to verify the effectiveness of the containment actions and document them. Implementing containment actions helps you to protect the customers and the reputation of the organization while you work on finding and fixing the root cause.

4 Identify the root cause

The fourth step of the 8D method is to identify the root cause of the problem, which is the underlying factor or condition that makes the problem occur. You need to collect and analyze data and evidence that relate to the problem using various tools and techniques, such as fishbone diagram, 5 whys, Pareto chart, or fault tree analysis. You also need to validate the root cause by testing hypotheses and eliminating alternative causes. Identifying the root cause helps you to understand why the problem happens and how to prevent it from happening again.

5 Choose and verify corrective actions

The fifth step of the 8D method is to choose and verify corrective actions that permanently eliminate or reduce the root cause of the problem. You need to brainstorm and evaluate possible solutions that address the root cause using criteria such as feasibility, effectiveness, cost, and risk. You also need to test and verify the chosen solution using data and measurements to ensure that it works as intended and does not create new problems. Choosing and verifying corrective actions helps you to solve the problem in a robust and sustainable way.

6 Implement corrective actions

The sixth step of the 8D method is to implement corrective actions that you have chosen and verified in the previous step. You need to plan and execute the implementation of the solution using project management tools and methods, such as Gantt chart, action plan, or PDCA cycle. You also need to monitor and control the implementation process and document the results and outcomes. Implementing corrective actions helps you to apply the solution in the real world and achieve the desired improvement.

8 Congratulate the team

The eighth and final step of the 8D method is to congratulate the team for their efforts and achievements in solving the problem. You need to recognize and reward the team members for their contributions and performance. You also need to share and celebrate the success and learnings with the stakeholders and customers. Congratulating the team helps you to motivate and appreciate the team and foster a positive and continuous improvement culture.