In FMEA, what does the term "failure mode" refer to?

In Failure Modes and Effects Analysis (FMEA), "failure mode" specifically refers to the various potential ways in which a process, product, or system can fail to perform its intended function. It identifies the different scenarios where failures could occur, allowing teams to assess the impact and prioritize actions to mitigate those risks.

Understanding failure modes is crucial because it forms the foundation of the FMEA process. By identifying these potential failures early in the design or operational phase, organizations can implement corrective measures, thereby enhancing reliability and safety. This proactive approach enables teams to strategize effectively about risk management within their processes or products.

Other terms such as methods for executing the analysis, types of corrective actions, or solution effectiveness are not directly related to the fundamental definition of "failure mode." Instead, these concepts are components of the larger FMEA process, focusing on how to conduct the analysis, respond to identified issues, and evaluate the success of various solutions.