8D is a problem solving methodology that emphasizes team synergy. It consists of 8 steps (or levels). Launsby Consulting offers an e-learning course that explains each step in great detail. The on-line course takes about two hours to complete. Additionally, each user gets one hour of free phone support to help them with their first “real world” application of the material. If you would like to see more information on the course, you can click here.
Below is a quick list of the steps in the 8D process. We have a more detailed walk thru of the 8D steps at the following link;
Step 3 - Implement and verify interim containment measures
Step 4 - Define and verify root causes
Step 5 - Identify and verify corrective actions
Step 6 - Implement permanent corrective actions
Step 7 - Prevent Recurrence
Step 8 - Recognize the team and report out to customers
One of the great benefits of using 8D is that it prevents something called firefighting. Firefighting, in the business world, refers to waiting for a problem to arise, then rushing around in panic mode to fix it. In 2006, I had a long talk with an organization (who will remain nameless of course) regarding firefighting. Their VP was a huge proponent of firefighting and I spent a very long time debating the inherent risks of this with him. I emphasized that having employees take our on-line 8D training course (which only takes one hour to complete) would provide them with the tools to avoid being placed in the firefighting mode. Opinions were tossed back and forth but this VP insisted he would continue to firefight because, in his words "Taking all the extra time required to train my people in 8D would be a waste. And besides, I enjoy firefighting. It adds an element of fun to my job." That was back in 2006 when the economy was great and almost all companies were booming. Since our conversation in 2006, I have watched that company’s stock price drop from $20 a share down to about 15 cents a share. I can’t help but believe that had this company embraced the 8D methodology instead of “firefighting”, it could have remained competitive.
Launsby Consulting offers a variety of tools on 8D Problem Solving.
