What is Reliability?

Abstract

What is the definition of reliability? Outside of the field of reliability, who defines it or what a failure is? Join Mojan and Fred as they explore how reliability is perceived across the product development ecosystem—from customers to suppliers to design engineers—and why the classic “but it met the spec!” defense misses the point. They discuss why the customer’s perspective is ultimately the only one that matters, and how asking the right questions can prevent the costly mistake of building something that technically works but fails in the real world. ᐅ Play Episode

Future Reliability Engineering

Abstract

Mojan and Fred discuss the monumental reliability challenges of a mission to Mars. While the fundamental physics remains the same, they explore why success depends on a more rigorous application of existing methods, autonomous systems, and the shift toward heavy simulation and in-situ repairs.

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Modeling Maintenance Benefits

Abstract

Mojan and Fred discuss how to integrate service plans into reliability target planning. They explore the shift from “worst-case” maintenance schedules to data-driven strategies, highlighting how predictable failure mechanisms and telemetry allow teams to take credit for high availability in their reliability models. ᐅ Play Episode

Why Paper Jams Persist

Abstract

Mojan and Fred dive into the surprisingly complex world of the “paper jam,” a problem that remains a daily frustration despite decades of high-level scientific research. From Fred’s time at HP to the massive technical laboratories at Xerox, they explore why the interaction between rigid mechanisms and non-rigid, organic media remains one of the most difficult (and accepted) puzzles in reliability engineering.

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Dealing with No Failures

Abstract

Mojan and Fred tackle the common engineering dilemma of what to do when a test concludes with zero failures. They discuss how to “artificially” assume a failure to benchmark against existing models and how to determine if your product is actually better than expected or if your test was simply flawed.

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Reasons to Model

Abstract

Mojan and Fred discuss the strategic shift from modeling as a checkbox exercise to using RAM (Reliability, Availability, and Maintainability) models as a driver for proactive decision-making. They explore how modeling forces teams to confront “the weakest link” and align resources where they can have the most impact early in a program
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Timely Reliability Thinking

Abstract

Fred shares insights from consulting with over 150 organizations on the perennial struggle between reactive “heroism” and proactive design. Mojan and Fred discuss the measurable benefits of investing in reliability early—such as reduced development time and lower warranty costs—and why 80% of companies still find themselves trapped in a “build-test-fix” cycle. ᐅ Play Episode

Modeling and Testing

Abstract

Mojan and Fred discuss the benefits of using failure models with testing. They explore the delicate balance between theoretical analysis and physical testing. While robust design starts with analysis, they discuss how testing serves as the ultimate “insurance policy” for decision-makers and why understanding the “Confidence Stack-up” is essential for a product’s success.
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Why Your Product Requirements are Slipping (and How to Fix Them)

Abstract

Mojan and Dianna explore the often-murky transition from vague product “needs” to actionable engineering requirements. They discuss where the communication gap typically develops between product management and engineering and how to close it using tools like System and Concept FMEAs. By defining failure as the “loss of key characteristics,” teams can better understand customer impact and “lift the fog” of ambiguity early in the design process.

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Leaving a Team Better Off

Abstract

Mojan and Fred discuss how reliability engineers can be most supportive in organizations to enable the most value-extraction from them and the team.
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What is In it For Them

Abstract

Mojan and Fred discuss the benefits of Design for Reliability and how to demonstrate them.
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Today’s New Reliability Challenge

Abstract

Mojan and Fred discuss the range of new challenges facing reliability engineering work.
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Reliability ≠ Testing

Abstract

Mojan and Fred discuss the idea that a product’s reliability is not the same as doing reliability testing.
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