Master Problem Solving with 8D - The Framework Top Engineers Rely On
Learn the 8D problem-solving framework used by top engineers to identify, analyze, and eliminate issues, ensuring lasting solutions and continuous improvement.
Duration: 1 Day
Hours: 2 Hours
Training: Live Training
Training Level: All Level
Wednesday, February 11, 2026
12:00 PM - 02:00 PM (Eastern Time)
Thursday, March 12, 2026
12:00 PM - 02:00 PM (Eastern Time)
About the course:
“Master Problem Solving with 8D” introduces participants to the globally recognized 8-Discipline (8D) methodology used by engineering, manufacturing, quality, and operations teams to solve complex, recurring problems.
This course breaks down each discipline into practical steps, emphasizing root-cause analysis, cross-functional collaboration, containment, corrective actions, verification, and preventive controls. Through real-world examples, learners discover how 8D prevents repeated failures, improves product reliability, strengthens processes, and builds customer confidence.
Course Objectives:
By the end of this course, learners will be able to:
- Explain the purpose and benefits of structured 8D problem solving.
- Identify each discipline’s activities, deliverables, and documentation requirements.
- Form effective cross-functional teams with clearly defined roles.
- Contain issues quickly to protect customers and operations.
- Apply root-cause analysis tools (5 Whys, Fishbone/Ishikawa) within the 8D process.
- Generate, evaluate, and implement robust corrective actions.
- Verify solution effectiveness with measurable criteria.
- Implement preventive actions to eliminate recurrence and improve system resilience.
- Communicate 8D reports clearly to stakeholders and customers.
Who Is the Target Audience?
This course is ideal for:
- Engineers (quality, manufacturing, process, design, reliability).
- Operations, lean, and continuous improvement professionals.
- Project managers, supervisors, and production leads.
- Supply chain, logistics, and vendor management roles.
- Anyone responsible for investigating and preventing recurring problems.
Basic Knowledge:
- Basic familiarity with day-to-day problem-solving is helpful.
- No formal engineering background required.
Curriculum
Total Duration: 2 Hours
Introduction to 8D Problem Solving
- Why structured frameworks matter
- Origins and evolution of 8D
- Typical use cases (quality, safety, process reliability, customer issues)
Preparation & Triage
- Initial assessment of issue severity
- Quick response triggers
- Data gathering basics
Build the Cross-Functional Team
- Skill diversity vs. title hierarchy
- Team roles and responsibilities
- Communication norms
Problem Description
- Defining the problem clearly (who, what, where, when, how many)
- Containment vs. root cause
- Problem statements vs. observations
Containment Actions
- Temporary fixes to protect customers
- Quick risk control steps
- Scope and limitations of containment
Root Cause Analysis
- True root cause vs. symptom
- 5 Whys technique
- Fishbone/Ishikawa overview (materials, methods, environment, etc.)
- Verification of root cause with evidence
Permanent Corrective Actions (PCAs)
- Generating solution alternatives
- Feasibility, cost, and risk evaluation
- Selecting the most robust PCA
- Linking causes to corrective actions
Implement & Validate Solutions
- Execution planning
- Pilot testing and checks
- Success criteria and tracking
Prevent Recurrence
- Systemic controls
- Standard work updates
- Training, documentation, and change control
- Audit and lessons learned
Team Recognition & Closure
- Celebrating improvements
- Knowledge sharing
- Continuous improvement culture
Supporting Tools & Documentation
- 8D report structure
- Data logs, checklists, and verification sheets
- Communication tips for customer-facing reports
Common Pitfalls
- Jumping to solutions
- Weak problem statements
- Skipping verification
- Treating symptoms instead of causes
Mini Case Walkthrough
- Sample scenario
- Group discussion prompts
- Identifying root cause vs. effect
Applying 8D in Your Role
- When to initiate an 8D
- Escalation triggers
- Integration with quality and safety systems