Key process output variables (sometimes referred to as Key Characteristics) are traits or features of a part, piece of material, assembly, subsystem, or system whose variation has a significant influence on fit, performance, reliability, manufacturability, or assembly. In short, they are characteristics that have a big impact on efficiency and/or customer satisfaction. Variation in key process output variables leads to lower levels of quality and reliability and, ultimately, higher costs.
Examples of key process output variables are:
- Slip torque of an actuator
- Gap between car body and rear quarter glass panel
- Cabin wind noise
- Fill volume for a bottled beverage