8D - Problem solving in 8 steps

Requirements for documented process in IATF 16949

Our Courses for 8D

Session 1

Training

Problem Solving 8D

Location

Taitotalo, Helsinki

Date

April 1-2

Price (EUR)

1 250,-

Course ID

4412-514

Availability

Participants

Due Date Registation

N/A

Application

What is 8D - Problem solving?

Maintaining the highest possible quality in the supply chain is crucial in the automotive industry. Meeting the requirements of IATF 16949 requires a structured and documented approach to problem solving. The 8D (Eight Disciplines) method is a systematic approach that allows problems to be effectively identified, analyzed and resolved, while preventing future non-conformities.

The process, originally developed by Ford, is used specifically to address complex problems affecting safety and quality. Following the 8D method steps ensures that root causes are identified and eliminated, while corrective and preventive actions are implemented.

The manual (80 pages) was updated in 2020 and is translated into Swedish.

Steps in the 8D method:

A structured problem-solving process in 8 steps

D1 - Problem solving team

Put together a team with the right skills.

D2 - Problem description

Identify the problem using questions such as ‘who, what, where, when and why’.

D3 - Containment measures

Implement temporary solutions to minimize the impact on the customer.

D4 - Root cause analysis

Analyze the root of the problem using tools like 5x Why and Ishikawa diagrams.

D5 - Selection and verification of corrective actions

Determine which solutions work best.

D6 - Implementation and validation of corrective actions

Implement and validate the most effective solution.

D7 - Prevention of recurrence

Introduce long-term changes in processes and procedures.

D8 - Conclusion and recognition

Evaluate results and celebrate team success.

Why?

The 8D approach provides a clear structure for identifying and addressing problems and preventing their recurrence. This approach ensures that resources are used efficiently and that the quality of production is strengthened.

Some of the key benefits are:

Reduced complaints: Identify root causes and address them quickly.
More efficient resource management: Ensure the right resources are used for the right problem.
Higher quality: Preventing recurring problems improves product and process quality.
Increased customer satisfaction: Deliver products that meet high quality standards and strengthen customer relationships.

Who?

The 8D approach is particularly useful for people working in customer service, quality assurance or technical problem solving. It includes roles such as:

Project management
Product development
Purchasing
Process development
Quality management

Depending on your role, it is important to understand how an 8D report should be designed and which analytical tools, such as Ishikawa diagrams or the Is/Am not method, are used.

Further development and training in 8D

We offer several opportunities to further develop skills in the 8D approach:

Participation in training (1-2 days): learn the basics of the method or hone your skills.
Consulting support: Get help to develop or improve your problem-solving management system.
Assessment of practices: Use our assessment templates to improve your existing practices.

Tools

Problem solving with 8D can be documented with standard tools (e.g. MS Excel), but this requires a well-developed template that makes it possible to later see, for example, which root cause analyses were taken and how well the problem solving group succeeded.

VDA QMC has developed a JAVA-based tool that contains all the steps and evaluation conditions. The program is available in German and English versions, but we are working (January 2024) to also get a Swedish language version.

Read more on the VDA website (below) or contact us for further information