Purpose of a Body of Knowledge

Abstract

Chris and Fred discuss what the purpose of a ‘Body of Knowledge’ or BOK is? … or what is a BOK? … especially when it comes to reliability?
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Implementing Reliability Programs

Abstract

Carl and Fred discussing the challenges associated with implementing reliability programs.
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Interpreting Test Results

Abstract

Carl and Fred discussing a listener question about reliability demonstration testing; specifically how to deal with unrelated failures when using “success testing.”

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Training and the Trades

Abstract

James and Fred discussing the impact of the labor shortage on maintenance programs.
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How and What to Learn

Abstract

James and Fred discussing learning from failures, yet shouldn’t we prevent failures?
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Thoughts on ALARP

Abstract

Chris and Fred discussing another question from a listener based on ‘as low as reasonably practicable’ or ALARP. This is used a lot in risk management and analysis … but what is it?
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Reliability and Pumping Water

Abstract

Chris and Fred discussing service reliability based on a listener question where we don’t just look at reliability as it applies to an item, product or device. Instead … we look at ‘reliability of a service’ … or system, … or process. How can this help a farmer who is trying to work out how to best supply water to his cattle?
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Design Failure Patterns

Abstract

Kirk and Fred discussing how new technology designs of buildings or electronics are usually over-designed in the first generation.
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Reliability and Simplicity

Abstract

Kirk and Fred discussing marketing reliability, brand reputation for reliability along with tradeoffs between making equipment simple and reliable.
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Warning Signs and Culture

Abstract

Chris and Fred discuss warning signs … especially those that revolve around culture … are often ignored. And it takes a ‘disaster’ or ‘catastrophe’ to do something about this. Why is this?
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When is MTBF OK?

Abstract

Chris and Fred discuss the MTBF … and if and when it can be used … sometimes in reliability engineering. We know that the MTBF is one of the most chronically overused (and misused) so-called ‘reliability’ metrics. But is there scope for it to be used … sometimes?
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Creativity and Engineering

Abstract

Carl and Fred discuss the broad subject of creativity, and how it applies to engineering activities, including reliability engineering.
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Short Term Thinking

Abstract

Carl and Fred discussing the problem with short-term thinking; and the benefits of long-term thinking in the field of reliability engineering and management.
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Demonstration Testing

Abstract

Chris and Fred discuss the whole idea of ‘demonstration testing’ … and how it may be ‘chronically’ overused or at least misunderstood. Heard of ‘demonstration testing’ and need to learn more?
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Perils of Assuming a Model

Abstract

Chris and Fred discuss some of the issues you face when selecting a (potentially incorrect) model. And how much uncertainty still remains when you do. Hate statistics … but need a nice and easy introduction to this sort of stuff?
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