A Methodology for Applying Quality Function Deployment to the Commissioning Process

Abstract

Commissioning is a quality process used within building construction to verify that the finished project meets the design, construction, and operation and maintenance requirements of the owner. In product development, quality function deployment captures the voice of the customer and translates it into engineering characteristics that are carried into production and service, assuring the final product meets this voice. This article presents a methodology for using a four-phase quality function deployment model within the commissioning process—building upon the foundation known as the house of quality. Practitioners are provided the steps to take this model through each of the phases of commissioning as a means of overseeing the entire design and construction quality process and assuring the final product delivers on all of the customer’s requirements.

Keywords:

• Commissioning
• Construction
• Four-Phase QFD
• Project Management
• Quality Function Deployment

EMJ Focus Areas:

• Continuous Improvement
• Innovation
• New Product Development

Additional information

Notes on contributors

William L. Gillis

Dr. Elizabeth A. Cudney is an Associate Professor in the Engineering Management and Systems Engineering Department at Missouri University of Science and Technology. She received her B.S. in Industrial Engineering from North Carolina State University, Master of Engineering in Mechanical Engineering and Master of Business Administration from the University of Hartford, and her doctorate in Engineering Management from the University of Missouri–Rolla. In 2014, Dr. Cudney was elected as an ASEM Fellow. In 2013, Dr. Cudney was elected as an ASQ Fellow. In 2010, Dr. Cudney was inducted into the International Academy for Quality. She received the 2008 ASQ A.V. Feigenbaum Medal and the 2006 SME Outstanding Young Manufacturing Engineering Award. She has published five books and over 50 journal papers. She is an ASQ Certified Quality Engineer, Manager of Quality/Operational Excellence, and Certified Six Sigma Black Belt. She is a member of the ASEE, ASEM, ASQ, IIE, and the Japan Quality Engineering Society (JQES).

Elizabeth A. Cudney

Dr. William L. Gillis is a managing engineer in the Planning, Design, and Construction department at University of Missouri-Columbia. He is also an adjunct professor for the departments of Engineering Management and Systems Engineering and Civil, Architectural, and Environmental Engineering at Missouri University of Science and Technology. He is a professional engineer, professional engineering manager, project management professional, and LEED AP. He received his BS in mechanical engineering from University of Missouri-Rolla, MBA from Webster University, and PhD in engineering management from Missouri University of Science and Technology.