The way to find solutions to any production problem -- and a whole lot of other issues

The A2Q Method is straightforward 

Scientific Method writ large --

Deming's PDCA -- Plan Do Check Act explained --

With Experimental Design included!
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As the tech staff describes the problem & possible causes (influences), they think of more aspects -- they may change the root cause of the problem.  That's all OK. Loop back (blue line) and get it down for all to see.

List at least 16 influences.  Rank them all -- vote if you have to.  Then pick off the top 3, 4, or 5 to study.  Three is easier to understand and less complicated in the shop.  Don't take the most difficult route the first time, OK?
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When the tech staff has decided how to measure to show improvement, THEN we need a little statistics -- someone who has done it before -- to select the types of conditions that will be used.  Using the KISS approach, there is one set of conditions for 3 influences, one for 4, and one for 5.

For a little help with the next steps, email Jay at quality@a2q.com.  For a lot of help, see a university statistics department.  It's not hard -- addition, subtraction, and division and you are on your way.
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