New Tools for Quality Design

All AT&T products, whether large switching systems (5ESS TM), sophisticated transoceanic optical fiber transmission systems (TAT8) or household telephones, are designed to fulfill customer expectations for quality and reliability. Traditionally, most of the emphasis on product quality has been on quality controls and inspections in manufacturing, one of the last phases of the product realization process. It is now well recognized that attention paid to quality earlier in the process yields higher dividends by minimizing the need for design iterations, by maximizing yield, and by reducing inspection and repair costs. This article will focus on one part of the product realization process, the design phase, and some of the new tools and methods being used to improve the quality of design. Examples will be drawn from the design of electronic components.