Page 157 - Design for Six Sigma for Service (Six SIGMA Operational Methods)

Value Engineering 131

for a function, not hardware, not paperwork. Hardware has no value; only
function has value. We pay to retrieve information, not file papers.
Defining functions is not always easy. It takes practice and experience to
properly define a function. It must be defined in the broadest possible
manner so that the greatest number of potential alternatives can be
developed to satisfy the function. A function must also be defined using two
words, a verb and a noun. If the function has not been defined in two words,
the problem has probably not been properly defined.

Function is a forcing technique, which tends to break down barriers to visu-
alization by concentrating on what must be accomplished, rather than the
present way a task is being done. Concentrating on function opens the way
to new innovative approaches through creativity. Some examples of simple
functions are as follows: create design, evaluate information, determine
needs, grow wealth, and enclose space.

There are two types of functions, basic and secondary. The basic function
describes the most important action performed. The secondary function
supports the basic function and almost always adds cost.

Evaluate the Functions
After the functions have been defined and identified as basic or secondary,
we must evaluate them to determine if they are worth their cost. This step is
usually done by comparison with something that is known to be a best cost.
Best cost is the lowest overall cost to reliably provide a function.

Develop Alternatives
Function has been defined as the property that makes something work or
sell, and the best cost is the lowest overall cost to reliably provide the
function. In value engineering analysis, if we find that the current cost to
provide a function is significantly higher than the best cost, then we need to
ask: What else will do the job? That is, we will try to develop alternative
ways to perform this function.
In order to develop alternatives, we make maximum use of imagination and
creativity. This is where team action makes a major contribution. The basic
tool is brainstorming. In brainstorming, we follow a rigid procedure in
which alternatives are developed and tabulated with no attempt to evaluate
them. Evaluation comes later. At this stage, the important thing is to develop
the revolutionary solution to the problem.