The seven steps of the FMEA

The 7 steps of FMEA according to the VDA/AIAG harmonization

Step 7 of the standardized FMEA method description:

Summary: Documentation of the results
The work results collected from steps 1 to 6 of the standardized FMEA method description together form the basis for the documentation of the results of the FMEA. Both the structure and the resources for the analysis are presented again. Among other things, the following is recorded: Which experts were involved when? How much time was invested? In addition, of course, the work results, the risk assessment at the beginning of the analysis, the actions identified, the responsibilities and the timing are described in detail once again in the documentation of the results of the FMEA. The form of documentation of the results of the FMEA should always be determined in accordance with the specific project. The main objective of the 7th step of the standardized FMEA method description according to the FMEA handbook (AIAG & VDA) is to give both those involved internally and external parties who are not involved a comprehensive and clear overview of the results of the underlying FMEA analysis. It may be that some actions have not yet been completed and these must be expressly marked as open in the documentation of the results of the FMEA and continue to be updated in the FMEA. For an optimized FMEA as the basis for successful series production with minimized risk.

Detailed knowledge: Documentation of the results in the FMEA method description


Purpose
The main objectives of documentation of the results of the FMEA are:
  • Clear communication of the consequences of the FMEA for both those involved and those outside
  • Conclusive documentation of the actions defined and their effectiveness
  • Recording of the conclusive assessment of the risk on completion of the FMEA analysis
  • Communication of actions following on from the FMEA in the direction of customers and suppliers
  • Comprehensive documentation of the entire risk analysis

Detailed knowledge: Documentation of the results in the FMEA method description


Documentation
The concluding documentation of the results of the FMEA comprises a detailed summary of the entire FMEA analysis with all of its various aspects and actions taken. It can be used effectively both within the company itself and in communication with suppliers and customers, but it does not replace any reviews required by them or the management. In order to reach the target audience as effectively as possible, the documentation of the results should be coordinated with the requirements of the company, representatives of interest groups, employees and service providers. Through agreements between the partners involved in the FMEA, it is ensured that the intellectual property of the FMEA analysis remains in the company.

The detailed documentation of the results of the FMEA in the 7th step of the standardized FMEA method description according to the handbook (AIGA & VDA) comprises:

  • Final status in comparison to the original objectives (record date, list of participants, scope, tools, analytical method, etc.)
  • Scope of observation, including new content
  • Derivation of functions in the FMEA
  • Documentation of failures (at least those with a high risk), including the assessment tables used and the procedure for prioritizing the actions
  • Actions agreed and planned, included action status
  • Timeframe for ongoing actions to optimize the FMEA

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