A Study of Failure Mode and Effect Analysis and its Role in Air Force Program Management

Failure Mode and Effect Analysis (FMEA) is a systematic approach which evaluates a system with respect to its most possible failures. This is accomplished by first making the basic assumption that the system has failed and then hypothesizing specific failure modes, failure causes and failure effects. Also included is a determination of some measure of failure probability and the assignment of a criticality classification. The study examines this process through the formulation of a FMEA on a hypothetical system. The way in which FMEA is currently employed in Air Force defense system procurements is reviewed and the potential benefits of the expanded utilization are explored. The study concludes that the lack of understanding of the basic concepts and the reliability oriented use of FMEA precludes much of its potential benefit to the Air Force Program Manager. Certain benefits are emphasized if the recommended changes to the philosophy surrounding the FMEA process should be adopted. (Author)