Taguchi Methods and Design of Experiments (DOE) are an oft-utilized and sometimes controversial way of looking at how to improve your company's profit margin. To put it simply, Taguchi methodology focuses on applying engineering techniques to your company's processes rather than more-traditional statistics. By focusing on adjusting your processes' inputs as far up-stream as possible, you're able to significantly improve your company's quality engineering.
While people can spend their entire professional careers studying Taguchi DOE and how to apply it, most business owners don't have the time to do so. Instead, they rely on Design of Experiments software (DOE) as well as consultants who provide them with an appropriate Taguchi Design of Experiments solution for their business. There are a wide variety of such options available in the market today; the only difficulty can be in choosing the right one.
When looking at utilizing outside help for Taguchi experimental design in your business, among the key points to consider are:
1. The ability of your company to apply findings from Design of Experiments software;
2. The possibility of training one or more of your employees in the Taguchi method;
3. The opportunity to bring in an outside Design of Experiments method consultant.
Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done
Find Taguchi experiments software that fits your business
If you or one of your employees already has rudimentary knowledge in Taguchi Design of Experiments, it's possible that all you will need is the right software to turn that knowledge into higher profits. Whether you prefer a software module that works with Microsoft Excel or a standalone program, there are options available for your company.
I recommend: Minitab is a standalone piece of software that offers a variety of statistical analysis options, including Taguchi DOE. KnowWare offers a series of
QI Macros that integrate with Microsoft Excel, including some for the Taguchi Method.
Train yourself or your employees in Taguchi Methods and Design of Experiments
If you truly want the best application of Taguchi methodology on a day-in, day-out basis, you should seek expert training for yourself or some of your employees. By learning as much about the Design of Experiments method as possible, you're more likely to correctly apply your knowledge continuously in your business.
I recommend: Integral Concepts offers both
Design of Experiments and
Advanced Design of Experiments training courses to the public.
Hire a consultant to implement a Taguchi Design of Experiments solution
If you don't have the knowledge to appropriately apply software or the time to become trained on the Taguchi method, your best solution would be to hire a consultant with the knowledge you need. By utilizing an outside consultant, you can help increase your profit margin through quality engineering.
I recommend: Stat-Ease has several Design of Experiments experts who can consult with your company on your quality engineering needs.
Tips & Tactics
Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide
- While some statisticians discount Taguchi Methods and Design of Experiments, it's considered strong enough to be a critical part of the renowned Six Sigma certification. By utilizing the methods appropriately, you can help your company to achieve this prestigious level.
The official source of Taguchi Methods and Design of Experiments (DOE) is
the Taguchi Methods and Design of Experiments (DOE) page at Business.com
Related Resources from Business.com
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