1. Process Decision Model
Components:
INPUT
METHODOLOGY PROCESS GOALS
OUTPUT
Descriptions:
PROCESS -- “A systematic series of actions directed to the achievement of a goal.” “A process
should be: goal oriented…systematic…capable…legitimate (that is, acceptable).”
-- Juran
GOALS -- The underlying reasons for or purposes of a process. Identifying goals and defining
goals in tangible, objectively measurable terms is the first critical step in developing a
“quality” process. Prioritizing several goals is the second. Subsequent decision making
will then be consistent and more effective. Group productivity also improves with
agreement on goals.
OUTPUT -- The products or services that result from and determine when a process is complete.
Time and cost, output performance, and customer satisfaction or dissatisfaction are the
measurements of “quality” output. (A customer is anyone impacted by the output of a
process, including those involved in the process.)
INPUT -- The resources that are used in a process. Knowledge of both the functions required by
a process and the functional capabilities of available resources is necessary to choose
the optimum input. Therefore, functional analysis is essential when deciding on input.
METHODOLOGY -- The sequence of the tasks and events that complete or improve a process. A
good methodology effectively integrates short-term goals and long-term goals. The best
methodology is the one with the fewest deficiencies and the greatest customer
satisfaction. (The objective is zero defects.)
JFW