Exploring Alternatives to MTBF

You may already know my position on MTBF.

If not, do not use MTBF at all, ever, in any form. So what should we use instead?

I suggest using reliability, the probability of success over a specific duration.

Let’s discuss what will work for you.

Let’s explore MTBF in two parts.

First, let’s share some stories about how using MTBF leads to misunderstandings and poor decisions. How bad can the use of MTBF be? What have you seen, and how much time have you spent educating others about MTBF?

Second, let me propose using reliability as a replacement metric.

The probability of success over duration. Right from the definition of reliability. The math is straightforward, and very few can misinterpret its meaning. For a bonus, determine the cost per failure to tie the reliability metrics into business objectives language (money).

Finally, what to do if your organization or vendors are mired in using MTBF?

Let’s discuss the next steps and what you can do today to minimize the adverse impact of MTBF. Plus, let’s share some success stories of steps various organizations are taking to improve their reliability programs simply by avoiding using MTBF.

If you face entrenched positions supporting MTBF use and want to change to a better measure, this webinar is for you.

If you have moved your organization away from MTBF, please join the conversation and share how you did it.

This Accendo Reliability webinar originally broadcast on 10 November 2015.