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Learn more about 8D as a disciplinary problem-solving process and the final results and benefits that occur as an output of the process.
Eight Disciplines (8D) problem-solving methodologies seek to identify problems within a company or team setting and solve them to eliminate future issues. Also known as Ford 8D or the Eight Disciplines approach, the Ford Motor Company developed this method of improving processes in 1987 to give its employees a way to address manufacturing problems. Although it has roots in the automotive industry, this team-based process applies to many situations and scenarios across various industries.
Read on to learn more about the steps included in the 8D methodology, the benefits of using 8D, and how it compares to other problem-solving methodologies.
The 8D process has eight problem-solving disciplines representing the steps to identify and solve problems. Because it gets to the root causes of a problem, the 8D methodology offers the possibility of permanent correction, ensuring an issue doesn’t recur. These steps work together to provide a structured approach for teams for an effective solution.
The eight disciplines, each of which represents a distinct step in the process, include the following:
Before addressing any issues, you must form a team within your company to gather knowledge and information on the problem at hand. Your team should consist of about five people, each of whom should possess a product or process knowledge that will be integral to finding a solution.
Once you and your team have gathered the relevant information to the problem, you can define the who, what, where, when, why, and how of the problem to determine what you need to address. By stating the problem in quantifiable terms, you and your team can better grasp what you need to do to solve it.
By developing an interim containment plan, your team can take definable actions to prevent the problem from affecting future customers and growing to the point that will affect your company or its resources.
Your team should identify any potential root causes that may have created the problem. Your responsibility is to determine why the problem happened and if anything specific happened to cause the problem.
Now that you have identified the root cause, your team should begin developing, testing, and verifying permanent solutions to the problem to ensure its long-term durability. Testing out your solutions on a smaller scale will ensure their lasting effect on the situation.
Now that you have tested and verified solutions, you can officially implement them to counteract the problem. Ensure that your team agrees on the best course of action and that you have discussed and reviewed all potential options before implementing your chosen strategy.
Once you have successfully implemented your corrective action, you and your team need to confirm that it will stay in place as a long-term solution and the problem will not arise again. Modify your company’s management and operations systems and adjust company practices and policies to prevent the recurrence of the issue.
Formally recognize and thank your team for their collective efforts and a job well done. Also, take time to perform a final review of the process, noting any lessons learned or insights you gained that may be useful. The team is responsible for implementing solutions that have corrected the problem. As a result, the company or organization should appreciate and recognize them to support a company culture that celebrates continuous improvement and organizational quality.
Read more: What Is Team Development? Definition, Stages, and More
The benefits of using 8D largely stem from its focused, collaborative methods. The detailed process can help your organization develop long-term solutions that will solve issues within the company. It also ensures that the company uses a consistent process and approach to solving problems, focusing on getting to the root cause of the issue. This process also calls for a team with effective communication skills, and utilizing the 8D method may improve communication among the organization’s employees. Additionally, as you develop solutions for your company, you increase customer satisfaction by addressing problems effectively and ensuring the same issues will not impact your customers again.
While the 8D method can have many benefits, it is a detailed process that requires a focused and functional team. It also requires proper guidance and instructions, and a lack of resources or focus could negatively impact it. For these reasons, weighing the usefulness against the potential drawbacks is essential to decide whether the 8D method will work for your organization, customers, and employees.
The 8D problem-solving methodology is only one of many techniques that organizations and companies around the world are using today. Some of these alternative methodologies include:
The Lean problem-solving method is similar to the 8D method in that it begins by identifying the problem and working towards a solution. However, the Lean method focuses on continuous improvement rather than the 8D method’s goal of long-term corrective action. Continuous improvement allows you to address the root cause of the problem while continuously seeking new and developed solutions.
One of the main differences between Lean and 8D problem-solving is everyone's involvement in the problem-solving process. The Lean method involves everyone in the organization coming together to focus on a problem and develop countermeasures. Lean has five fundamental principles that constitute its implementation:
The Six Sigma method intends to improve business processes by simultaneously reducing errors and improving quality. An increase in quality and efficiency is integral to the Six Sigma method, and it stands apart from the 8D method as it emphasizes perfection. Six Sigma aims to achieve near perfection in correcti