In the operation of Product Development, a Critical-to-Quality (CTQ) tree is an indispensable tool to (1) Define what the finished product should be, (2) Optimize the features of the product, (3) Define measurements of quality, (4) Provide feedback for next generation product. While we have all heard the cliché “The customer is always right”, in a real world scenario the customer is often unable to express clearly the factors that make up a successful product. In such cases, the CTQ tree helps by providing an interview process that focuses on documenting clear specifications and measures for success.
The CTQ starts by identifying the customer and its need for the product or service. This need is further categorized into the requirements of such product. Then the requirements are further refined into the unique features that will make the product.
Maurice Pinto
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