Abstract:
This dissertation approaches the problem of how to design process
measurements by identifying process attributes which are common to all product
development processes. By classifying the generic attributes of a product
development process and their relationships, a framework is established which
gives definition and context to individual measurements. At the heart of this
classification scheme is a bifurcation of attributes into either internal or external
classes. This classification system clearly distinguishes between measurements that
define the behavior a process must attain, from measurements that quantify the
internal details of process implementation. This distinction borrows on concepts
from object modeling. The utility of this classification scheme includes a clear
understanding of the relationships which exists between process measurements and
their effects on a human based process. The relationship between processes is
considered and classified to understand how process measurements affect these
relationships and how they can be used to improve the relationships between
processes. Guidelines for the design and application of process measurements for
process management are developed.
To provide a practical tool for engineers and managers in the field, the
process measurement theory developed in this dissertation is used as the basis for a
process measurement methodology. This methodology borrows from Quality
Function Deployment techniques and can be used on its own or in conjunction with
Quality Function Deployment methodologies. The process measurement
methodology leads the manager through a seven step process to create a complete
and coherent suite of process measurements which are tailored to a particular
process. A primary focus of the methodology is to align process implementation
with the process behavior that is specified by the process's customer and ultimately
by the enterprise level goals of the organization.
An illustrative example of the process measurement methodology is
included to demonstrate its utility and provide a measure of verification. The
example is based on a published design process example of the Quality Function
Deployment methodology.
