What is the purpose of a failure mode and effects analysis (FMEA)?

The purpose of a failure mode and effects analysis (FMEA) is to identify potential failure modes in a process. FMEA is a systematic approach used to evaluate processes in order to identify where and how they might fail and to assess the relative impact of different failures. By focusing on potential failure modes, teams can prioritize which areas need improvement or mitigation efforts based on the severity and likelihood of the failures occurring.

This proactive analysis helps organizations to prevent defects and enhance reliability by emphasizing the identification of weaknesses within the process. The focal point of FMEA is the identification of what might go wrong and how those failures could affect the overall process or product. This understanding is critical in designing processes that are robust and capable of meeting customer needs without disruptions caused by failures.