ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses ways in which to understand quality at the early stages of design. It discusses methodologies which help the designers understand if they are in fact meeting the expectations of their customers. The chapter describes how to improve process quality at the time of design. It explores several design characteristics which improve process quality. Quality in product design is what separates the good companies from the also-rans. Design quality information will come out as models and prototypes are used in the product evaluation by customers. One method of getting a better understanding of the effect of key design features on the manufacturing process is to develop a cause and effect diagram. Reliability is usually measured for complex designs. Quality in product design is also what separates the good designers from the average engineer. Governing bodies place regulations on products, industry groups develop standards and many corporations have their own standards.
