Identifying a Poka Yoke Solution

Hinckley has proposed the following six-step methodology, quality by control of mistakes (QCM), for an efficient approach to identify a poka yoke measure for problem-solving:^[26]

1.	Identify the problem.
2.	Analyze the problem.
3.	Generate solutions.
4.	Compare, select, and plan the solution.
5.	Implement the solution.
6.	Evaluate.

In this chapter we have presented two powerful approaches to deliver defect free software as part of a DFTS deployment: controlling complexity and mistake-proofing (poka yoke). We have argued that mistakes are a major source of defects that requires even more attention than Statistical Quality Control (SQC). This is especially so in a software development context.

We have shown that complexity reduction and mistake-proofing are linked and how controlling complexity is a smart way to eliminate the causes of potential mistakes substantially before poka yoke is deployed. We have identified a practical measure of complexity and provided a framework for controlling product and process complexity in a software context. Finally, we have introduced poka yoke system as a cost-effective quality control system to reduce defects further as part of a DFTS deployment.