What is 8D?
8D refers to the Eight Disciplines Model, a problem-solving technique used to contain, resolve, or prevent issues identified in a product or process. The 8D model was initially used in the automotive industry due to Ford’s influence, but it is now widely used in various industries, including manufacturing, healthcare, and retail.
What is an 8D Report?
An 8D Report is a valuable document that can be used when implementing the 8D problem-solving method. 8D Reports can lead to preventive measures that identify the root causes of issues and resolve them by utilizing a combination of expertise, data analysis, management tools, and data validation.
8D Format: Step-by-Step Process of 8 Disciplines
The format of an 8D template encompasses the eight disciplines of problem-solving which are:
- D1: Form a team – Assemble a cross-functional team with the skills and knowledge needed to address the problem effectively.
- D2: Define the problem – Clearly describe the issue, including its scope, impact, and specific details to ensure a shared understanding.
- D3: Develop a containment plan – Implement temporary actions to control the problem and prevent further impact while working on a solution.
- D4: Identify root cause and escape points – Use data analysis and tools to determine the root cause of the problem and identify why it was not detected earlier.
- D5: Formulate corrective actions – Develop permanent solutions that address the root cause and prevent the issue from recurring.
- D6: Implement corrective actions – Execute the corrective actions and verify their effectiveness in eliminating the problem.
- D7: Formulate preventive measures – Establish measures, processes, or policies to prevent similar issues from reoccurring.
- D8: Congratulate the team – Recognize and celebrate the team’s efforts and success in solving the problem.
Benefits of Using 8D Report Templates
8D report templates have helped countless businesses improve their operations with their thorough, structured approach to problem-solving. However, it has prerequisites that may not appeal to smaller operations with limited resources.
- 8D Reports provide a long-term solution – The 8D Model aims to eradicate the problem, not its symptoms. Once a problem has been identified, 8D takes a three-pronged approach to solving it: containment, resolution, and prevention
- 8D Reports address the escape point – An “escape point” refers to the first control point in the system or process which was supposed to detect the problem, but failed. The study of escape points in an 8D form helps teams find the flaws in safety measures and fail-safes so they can be improved.
- 8D Reports are flexible – The 8D Report Model has seen extensive use outside of the auto industry. Hardware manufacturing, food manufacturing, and healthcare are just a few industries that have benefited from using the 8D Report Model. Here is an example of an 8D report PDF used in a hospital setting.
FAQs about 8D and 8D Reports
To write an 8D report, the 8 disciplines of problem solving should be followed:
- D1 – Create a team
- D2 – Describe the problem
- D3 – Develop an interim containment plan
- D4 – Determine, Identify, and verify root cause of the problem
- D5 – Determine permanent corrective actions to solve the problem(s)
- D6 – Implement and validate corrective actions
- D7 – Take note of other additional measures to prevent recurrence of the same problem(s)
- D8 – Determine how the team can be rewarded for their efforts and to boost motivation
The 8D process usually takes four days, but may prolong depending on the complexity of the problem. At max, it is expected that 8Ds will be closed in less than 30 days.
The 8D methodology and 8D reports are triggered by a complaint, especially if these complaints relate to safety or regulatory issues, high-volume customer complaints, warranty costs, internal rejects, poor performance, etc. In some cases, 8D is used as a standard procedure as a component of quality management.
Jona Tarlengco