Fundamentals of Ongoing Reliability  Testing

podcast episode with speaker Fred Schenkelberg

Ongoing Reliability Testing (ORT) is a class of product testing that aims to identify potential field reliability issues after product launch and before customers experience failures. Typically, done using a rotation of samples directly from production and using expected use conditions/stresses, the testing balances many factors to be of value.

ORT works well to monitor an ongoing production process subject to variation. If that variation impacts reliable performance, then a well-designed and implemented ORT should identify the issue.

Let’s explore the range of considerations when designing an ORT to optimize the ORT’s ability to identify field problems efficiently. We will also discuss the various tradeoffs that impact sample size, the use of accelerating stresses, and more.

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Fundamentals of Early Field Results

podcast episode with speaker Fred Schenkelberg

At least one group called this the ‘Delta Phase.’ It is the period shortly after launching a product and provides a unique opportunity to reduce future field failures and improve customer satisfaction dramatically. The idea is to aggressively identify and resolve any field issues identified by your customers.

There are a couple of ways to implement the Delta Phase with your product launch. Yet, it requires creating a team from the design/development team that has the authority and capability to implement design changes quickly.

Let’s explore the concept of a delta phase and how to implement it in your organization. Plus, let’s examine a few situations that make significant short and long-term reductions in the field failure rate.

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Fundamentals of System Effectiveness

podcast episode with speaker Fred Schenkelberg

System or Operational Effectiveness is comprised of three elements. An early definition included capability, reliability, and availability. Another early definition included availability, dependability, and capability. In essence, can the system do what it’s supposed to do? Is it ready when needed? And is it able to work without failure long enough?

Let’s examine system effectiveness and its factors or elements in more detail. Then, examine an example or two so you can apply this concept to your situation.

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Fundamentals of Reliability Goals

podcast episode with speaker Fred Schenkelberg

Goals, objectives, milestones, targets, whatever you call them, just have a clear one. Setting a reliability goal is easy. Get a few people together for a short discussion and in less then 10 minutes you can craft a meaningful reliability goal.

Let’s explore the elements that make up a reliability goal. Plus, the range of inputs you can use to define each element. Plus, some best practices when establishing goals.

Finally, simply setting a goal adds value to your organization – if it is a complete and practical goal. Estimating or measuring that value can be tricky, so let’s discuss a few ways you may quantify the value of a goal.

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Fundamentals of a Professional Development Plan

podcast episode with speaker Fred Schenkelberg

Professional development is not about pursuing a degree or title. It’s about what you can do with your knowledge. Of course, that is my opinion. Some seek credentials that may lead to a new position or opportunities. Some seek knowledge without intending to use it – education for education’s sake.

Whatever the motivation, we should approach learning meaningfully. Set objectives, do the homework, get feedback or coaching, and establish a routine to continue to hone your knowledge. Whether you want to learn something out of curiosity or master a topic to accomplish a task, you can plan to use your time efficiently.

Let’s explore how to improve your ability to learn and continue to learn throughout your career. As reliability engineers, there seems to be a never-ending list of concepts, failure mechanisms, novel materials, etc., that we can and should know about. With so many options for professional development, let’s examine a few principles and tips so you can learn and master what you desire to learn and master.

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