What is the purpose of Failure Modes and Effects Analysis (FMEA)?

The purpose of Failure Modes and Effects Analysis (FMEA) is primarily focused on identifying and controlling potential failures during the development process. This systematic method allows teams to analyze the various ways in which a product or process might fail, the causes of those failures, and the potential effects on the system or end-users. By identifying these potential failure modes early in the design or development phase, teams can implement preventive measures to mitigate risks before they occur.

This proactive approach is critical in enhancing safety, reliability, and quality. It enables organizations to prioritize which failure modes need the most attention based on their severity and likelihood of occurrence, leading to better resource allocation and design decisions. Ultimately, FMEA helps in ensuring that products and processes are robust before they reach production or implementation.