Failure Modes and Effects Analysis (FMEA) is a qualitative dependability analysis technique, which is particularly suited to development programmes where a level of risk is anticipated or where reliability and maintainability reviews are required. If ranking of identified risks is required the analysis is extended to use a Criticality assessment method, and is then called an FMECA. This method uses a quantitative or semi-quantitative method for assessment of failure likelihood.
This method lends itself to analysis of items from many different technology areas: electrical, mechanical, hydraulic etc., as well as procedural processes.
Failure Modes and Effects Analysis (FMEA) is a qualitative dependability analysis technique, which is particularly suited to the study of material, component and equipment failures and their effects. Extending the FMEA with a Criticality Analysis, or risk ranking, the quantitative FMECA includes an assessment of the likelihood of occurrence of the failures.
The FMEA or FMECA is a valuable tool in development programmes where a level of risk is anticipated or where reliability and maintainability reviews are required.
