Developed by Ford Motor Company, G8D or 8D is a disciplined problem-solving method.
The method establishes a permanent corrective action based on scientific analysis of the problem and on the origin of the problem by determining the root causes. Although it originally comprised eight stages thus called 8D, at the end of the 90's, another step was added and now it is called Global 8D (G8D).
D0: Preparation for Global 8D Process and Emergency Response Actions
- Initiate the G8D process and provide emergency response actions.
D1: Define Cross Functional Team
- Establish a small group of people with product and process knowledge.
D2: Define Problem or anomaly
- Define the internal/external problem by identifying in quantifiable terms the who, what, where, when, why, how, and how many (5W2H) for the problem.
D3: Interim Containment Action that will counter the Problem
- Define and implement containment actions to isolate the problem from any customer.
D4: Determine Root Causes
- Identify and verify the root causes that could explain why the problem has occurred.
D5: Choose Action that will address the problem permanently
- Selection of best permanent corrective action to remove the root cause, quantitatively confirm that the selected correction will resolve the problem. (Verify that the correction will actually solve the problem).
D6: Implement Permanent Corrective Actions
- Define and implement the best corrective actions. Also, validate corrective actions with evidence of improvement.
D7: Prevent Recurrence and system problems
- Adding to the management systems, operation systems, documents, and procedures to prevent recurrence of this and similar problems. Create lessons learned and database.
D8: Congratulate the Team
- Provide recognition to the collective efforts of the team.
Why G8D?
- Better understanding of basic statistical tools required for problem solving
- Understanding of problem identifying and how to resolve them
- Culture of adopting problem solving techniques into management systems
- Better effectiveness and efficiency towards problem solving
- Best way to understand Root Cause Analysis.
- Creating knowledge pool for Problems and actions taken to resolve them.
G8D is not a standalone methodology as it has inputs from other functions and processes and outputs beyond just solving the problem. Global 8D should become a process, like any other, and be integrated with design, operations and all other functions and quality control activities.
