Look at historical data and/or collect data to determine current process capability.
Determine the objective of the experiment.
Determine what to measure as the output of the experiment.
Identify factors (control factors and noise factors) that could affect the output.
Determine the number of levels for each factor, and their actual values.
Select an experimental layout that will accommodate the selected factors and levels and decide number of repetitions or replications.
Verify all measurement systems.
Plan and prepare the resources (people, materials, etc.) for conducting the experiment. Should we randomize the runs? Create a test plan.
Conduct the experiment, assuring each unit is labeled according to the experimental condition by which it was produced.
Measure the experimental units.
Analyze the data and identify strong factors.
Determine combination of factor levels that best achieves the objective
Run a confirmation experiment at this “optimal” combination.
Assure these best levels for strong factors are maintained over time by implementing Standard Operating Procedures and visual controls.
Re-evaluate process capability.