STATISTICAL-METHODS FOR RELIABILITY IMPROVEMENT

Statistical methods play an important role in the design and manufacture of reliable products. They are used to design, analyze, and present reliability improvement studies such as accelerated testing of critical parts, prototype testing, process design and qualification, first-office applications, and field-tracking studies. This article defines statistical reliability methods, explains how a product-reliability program uses them, and presents an example of their use. It also explores available software tools, training materials, and future directions.