Understanding Assumptions

Abstract

Carl and Fred discuss why it essential for reliability engineers to understand the assumptions that go into any reliability activity.

Key Points

Join Carl and Fred as they discuss the broad subject of assumptions. What are they? When are they needed? Why are they important?
Topics include:

How often do assumptions go unnoticed? What are the consequences of unnoticed assumptions?
How can you surface the assumptions that are part of an analysis?
Question everything! Ask, “What assumptions are you using?”
Make your assumptions visible and ensure everyone is aware and agrees.
For example, selecting the type of distribution to use in an analysis depends on specific assumptions.
Always ask what assumptions you are using as part of the analysis.
FMEAs begin with documenting the assumptions that go into the analysis.
Don’t assume that people will use the product exactly as intended.

Enjoy an episode of Speaking of Reliability. Where you can join friends as they discuss reliability topics. Join us as we discuss topics ranging from design for reliability techniques to field data analysis approaches.