Appendix A: The Four Stages of Quality Function Deployment

STAGE 1: ESTABLISH TARGETS

Develop a planning matrix (multiple functions).

• Recognize the voice of the customer.

• Analyze major product features.

• Perform market and technical evaluation of competitive products.

• Establish targets for major features.

Evaluate strengths and weaknesses of your product offering (engineering leadership role).

• Design, technology, reliability, cost

• Major selling features, critical targets, necessary breakthroughs

Note  

First QFD meeting held: Vice president of engineering chairs meeting for the purpose of critiquing the design concept and target setting.