Project quality function deployment

To provide an advanced product definition methodology based on quality function deployment (QFD) principles to identify minimize the risks of project failures due to failure to align with the voice of the business. The methodology was developed by reviewing current design product definition and QFD tools and then applied to a number of industry‐based design projects in academia as well as an in‐depth case study at one industry organization. The tool has been well accepted for its ease and approach in both industry and academic environments and already used to help guide project management. The methodology has only been applied to limited projects in industry and advancements and improvements are still being made. A new simple but powerful tool based on QFD principles that can be readily applied to a number of current design projects; in addition, it demonstrates how the QFD method can be expanded to non‐traditional domains and systems. This paper not only identifies current product development issues but also explores a practical and proven solution to error‐proof the design process.