What is design for reliability and what is not?

Reliability is no longer a separate activity performed by a distinct group within the organization. Product reliability goals, concerns and activities are integrated into nearly every function and process of an organization. Each organization must factor reliability into every decision in order to ensure produce a successful product. The old Test-Analyze-and-Fix philosophies no longer have a place in today's design process due to continuous cost reduction pressures and reduced design cycles. The motivation to implement a Design for Reliability (DfR) process include: 1) Higher Demand for Reliability that cannot be achieved using previous reliability techniques 2) Faster time to market 3) More emphasis on reducing cost 4) Fast moving technology, which creates new risks to development programs. Successful implementation of the DfR process will reduce the product development cycle, lower the design cost, and improve customer satisfaction.