What is the purpose of failure mode and effects analysis (FMEA)?

The purpose of failure mode and effects analysis (FMEA) is to systematically evaluate potential failure modes within a system and their impact on the overall performance or safety. This process is essential for identifying weaknesses in processes or products before they lead to actual failures, enabling organizations to implement corrective measures proactively. FMEA is commonly used in quality management systems, including those that comply with standards like ISO 9000.

By utilizing FMEA, organizations can enhance their quality assurance practices by identifying potential points of failure and analyzing the effects those failures may have on product quality and customer satisfaction. This proactive approach to risk management aligns with the objectives of ISO 9000, which emphasizes continuous improvement and customer focus in quality management.

The focus of FMEA on risk assessment and mitigation directly supports the development of ISO 9000-compliant quality systems, making this choice the most relevant answer. Other options, such as evaluating customer feedback, creating marketing plans, or assessing employee performance, do not encapsulate the specific intent and methodology of FMEA, which is fundamentally linked to quality management and risk analysis.