In most manufacturing and production environments, the concept of calibration is essential. This is especially true for digital devices. If companies want to embrace lean manufacturing principles, they must streamline and improve their calibration strategy.
Calibration is a fundamental concept that has been expanded into a whole field of business management, Measurement Systems Analysis. Production and quality control processes may involve testing for dimensions, functionality, or durability. To maximize the positive effects of all these tools and techniques, they must be calibrated regularly.
Three benefits of calibrating
Equipment and tools for calibrating instruments are essential to ensure precision and efficiency throughout the entire operation.
Reducing variability By adopting a proactive and more thorough policy regarding the calibration of company equipment, variability can be significantly reduced. This reduction will ultimately be dependent on the consequences and risks of product defects. Some processes are not worth the extra cost of over-calibration.
More useful Data – Data’s value is determined by its accuracy, relevance, and detail. Businesses that calibrate their equipment or processes reduce the impact of errors on workflow. Analysts can identify other important patterns or trends that could lead to significant improvements by calibrating their equipment and techniques.
Quality is more important than reputation Although a company may offer to replace defective items purchased by customers, it doesn’t always compensate for the inconvenience of having to purchase a defective item. Customers will know that calibration is key to quality.
What is the importance of calibration?
The company leadership must understand the importance of calibration, and how to prioritize it among other important considerations.
Six sigma and measuring
Six Sigma’s DMAIC action program includes measuring as one of its first components. Business leaders need to be aware of calibration and measurements as they go hand in hand.
Variability in the overall process
It is important to keep everything in perspective. Calibration is one way companies can reduce variability. It shouldn’t be more important than the actual process.
Determining acceptable
A serious discussion on calibration requires a discussion about how to define defects. It is possible to identify the point at which the product is defective. However, it is not always easy to determine where that line is. This decision should be supported by calibration procedures, and not directed by them.
Three best practices for calibrating
Six Sigma practitioners see calibration as a gateway to many practices that can be beneficial for any organization.
Continual optimization
Optimization and calibration are both patience exercises. It is all about creating a pattern for continuous, cyclical improvement. Although it may not be exciting or dramatic, it is effective and consistent.
Set the standard
Calibration is only important if there are standards at work. This is not something you can do lightly. While quality standards can be seen in products, they start with people. Make sure team members know and understand the value of what they do.
Invest in Training
You can have the best calibration equipment, but it only matters if your employees know how to use it correctly. Make sure to invest in training and get your employees on board with these practices.
