AQD (Analyze, Quantify, Detail)

Problem-solving framework emphasizing thorough problem definition before jumping to solutions. Analyze: systematically break down the problem into component parts and relationships. Quantify: measure performance at appropriate resolution—not too broad to miss patterns, not too narrow to lose context. Detail: specify problem characteristics at the level needed for effective action. Prevents superficial problem statements like 'quality is poor' by forcing specific, measurable descriptions. Used in A3 Current Condition, DMAIC Define phase, and 8D D2 Problem Description. The discipline of AQD ensures teams truly understand the problem before proposing countermeasures, avoiding wasted effort on solutions to poorly understood problems.