8D problems solving is one of the basic and effective problem-solving tools. Here, the Ds refer to 8 disciplines – the 8 steps of managing a problem and preventing its recurrence.
8 Steps of Problem Solving
History
During the 1980s, the Ford Motors was under the crisis – unable to cope up with the competition from the Japanese automobile companies. They requested Dr. Deming to support them to bring the company back to its effective and efficient way of manufacturing cars. This problem-solving approach was one of the key outcomes of their intervention. It has become a significant contributor in Ford’s journey towards business excellence.
The company found that their powertrain department was suffering severely with recurring quality problems. Hence, the company wanted to develop a robust approach to problem-solving where people from every related department to share their expertise to solve the problem in hand. They came up with a documented methodology called Team Oriented Problem Solving (TOPS) in 1987. The TSOP contained 8 steps for effective problem solving with the involvement of team members.
With a tremendous success of this simple approach, Ford made it as part of its global standard for its operations and for its suppliers’ operations.
Upgradation to G8D
Ford did an upgrade to the 8D methodology during the late 1990s and now they call it as Global 8D or G8D. With this revision, they introduced preplanning as step D0 (D-Zero). In this preliminary step, the team will document the symptoms that warrant 8D application. It will initiate necessary Temporary Corrective Action (TCAs) or the emergency responses before initiating the 8D documentation. The team can also justify the necessity of going ahead with the full 8D process.
This upgrade also introduces the concept of ESCAPE POINTS. Escape points are the earliest detection points in the process which failed to detect or control the root cause from becoming a problem.
Applications of 8D Problem Solving Methodology
The methodology is simple and applicable to most of the problems faced by the industries. Hence, it is widely accepted and recommended by companies to their suppliers, especially in auto industry.
CSense 8D Problem Solving Training Program
Training Contents
Overview
Overview of 8D
Understanding a Problem
Need for Problem Solving
Managing a Problem Vs Problem Solving
Step by Step Approach to Problem Solving
Assessing the problem and its risk
Quick decision on 8D
Forming Effective Teams
CFT & CHT
Problem Identification
Definition – use of 5W2H questions
Reporting and Documentation
Damage control – Interim Actions and Communication plan
By admin
May 21, 2017
