8D

The so called “8D”-Report is a document resulting from an 8D process which is part of a structured problem solving process in quality management if there are quality issues between customer and supplier.

8D represents the eight mandatory process steps that are performed when processing a claim to get to the root of the cause. The report details the nature of the claim, responsibilities, and actions taken to prevent the problem from reoccurring:

The 8D methodology is intended to ensure that complaints are dealt with systematically. Consistent documentation of the associated troubleshooting steps and a high level of fact orientation ensure that errors in the product or system are thoroughly investigated and thus permanently corrected instead of just solving the problem.

Application

These eight steps are performed for the 8D report: 

1 Define a team to solve the problem

A team familiar with the process and/or the product is formed. They analyze the problem, take corrective actions, and monitor the effectiveness.

2 Describe the problem

In this step, the problem is defined as precisely as possible and the root cause of the problem is identified.

3 Containment action

These measures are intended to resolve the problem quickly and limit the damage until a permanent solution is found.

4 Root cause analysis

You probably haven’t found the real root cause during step 2 therefor various tests and experiments are used during step 4 to search for the real root cause of the error and the most likely causes are identified. This is intended to ensure that similar errors do not occur again.

5 Planning of counter measures

It then determines the means by which the causes of the problem can be eliminated. It is tested whether these measures solve the problem efficiently and no undesired side effects occur.

6 Check effectiveness of counter measures

Once the corrective actions have been carried out successfully, the immediate actions must be stopped. In the automotive industry, only process-improving measures are regarded as permissible shutdown measures.

7 Prevent recurrence of error

To ensure that such an error does not happen again, the team must initiate and monitor preventive measures. In the automotive and aerospace industries, manufacturers must use the FMEA method to assess the risks identified during root cause analysis. .Also, quality management system rules and procedures may need to be adjusted.

8 Appreciation of team performance and Lessons Learned

In a last step, the achievements of the team are recognized and experiences are exchanged.