What is the first step in the Design of Experiments (DOE) process?

Establishing experiment objectives is the foundational step in the Design of Experiments (DOE) process. This initial phase sets the stage for the entire experimental framework, as it defines what the researcher aims to achieve through the experiment. By clearly articulating the objectives, the experimenter can focus on specific questions or hypotheses, guiding subsequent steps in the design process. It ensures that the resulting experiments are aligned with the intended goals, whether that involves improving a process, testing a hypothesis, or understanding relationships between variables.

Once the objectives are established, the experimenter can then move to identify the relevant variables, analyze data, and conduct experiments—all of which derive their purpose from the clearly defined objectives set at the beginning. Hence, establishing experiment objectives is not just a preliminary step; it is crucial for the success and relevance of the entire DOE approach.