Quality Function Deployment

QFD is sometimes described as "listening to the voice of the customer".
It is an operating mechanism to transform customer expectations into specific
design and manufacturing requirements.

Since its introduction into U.S. industry in 1983, QFD has generated widespread
interest as a means of improving quality, lowering development costs and
shortening lead times. QFD's appeal lies in its versatility. Its principles and
techniques can be applied to virtually any process, making it a valuable tool for
both manufacturing and service organizations. In addition, QFD can be
implemented in stages to whatever level is appropriate for a company. Even at
its most basic level, QFD can provide valuable information about customers
and products.