Establishing Critical to Quality (CTQ) Specifications for Your Product and Assembly
In today’s competitive landscape, delivering a product that meets customer expectations is non-negotiable. That’s where Critical to Quality (CTQ) specifications come in. CTQs are the key measurable attributes of a product or process that directly impact customer satisfaction. Establishing them early in your product development and assembly process ensures consistent quality, reduces rework, and enhances overall efficiency.
What Are CTQs?
CTQs are the essential elements that define what quality means for your customer. These could include performance metrics, physical dimensions, tolerances, durability, safety, and regulatory compliance. Each CTQ should be:
Measurable
Customer-driven
Aligned with product or process goals
How to Establish CTQs
Voice of the Customer (VoC): Start by gathering customer requirements through surveys, interviews, reviews, or support data. Translate qualitative feedback into quantifiable needs.
CTQ Tree: Use a CTQ tree to break down broad customer requirements into specific, measurable characteristics.
Prioritize Parameters: Focus on the few vital metrics that truly impact quality—don’t try to measure everything.
Define Specifications: Set clear numerical targets and acceptable ranges (e.g., tolerance levels, weight limits, response time).
Link to Process Controls: Align CTQs with inspection and testing checkpoints in your assembly process to ensure early detection of deviations.
Benefits
Improved product quality
Better alignment across teams
Reduced defects and warranty claims
Faster time-to-market through fewer iterations
Final Thoughts
CTQs bridge the gap between customer expectations and engineering execution. By identifying and controlling these parameters from design through assembly, you can deliver products that not only meet specs but exceed expectations. If you want to bring this to your product, you can trust Ashbrook Engineering!
