Process Decision Program Chart
Acronym
PDPC
Description
The process decision program chart (PDPC) provides a systematic means of finding errors with a plan while it is being created. Once potential issues are found, preventive measures are developed, allowing the problems to either be avoided or a contingency plan to be in place should the error occur.
Uses
When the completion schedule of a plan is vitally important.
In conjunction with a tree diagram.
When failure would be costly.
When looking for potential problems prior to implementing a sizeable and complicated plan.
How do I use this tool?
1. CREATE A TREE DIAGRAM for the task under consideration or use a pre-existing diagram if one exists. For this step, avoid creating a diagram that is overly complex.
2. ASK QUESTIONS for each item at the lowest level of your tree diagram. The questions should revolve around problems that could arise or things that could go wrong. Brainstorm a list of answers for each question.
3. ADD THE REMAINING POTENTIAL PROBLEMS to your tree diagram. These should be represented as "what-if" items under the lowest level of the diagram.
4. For each what-if element, BRAINSTORM POSSIBLE COUNTERMEASURES that could be implemented should the problem occur. Add these countermeasures to the diagram beneath their corresponding what-if items.
5. EVALUATE EACH COUNTERMEASURE, considering areas such as how easily the countermeasure can be implemented, its practicality, and effectiveness. Countermeasures considered difficult or ineffective should be marked with an 'X,' while those that are thought to be effective should be marked with an 'O.'
Expertise Required
This tool is easy to use and requires little or no training.
Advantages
Helps users determine preventative actions and countermeasures for potential problems.
Disadvantages
Only identifies and addresses transparent problems.
Where can I go to learn more?
American Society for Quality. Seven new management and planning tools: process decision program chart. 2009 [cited 2009 July 23]; Available from: http://www.asq.org/learn-about-quality/new-management-planning-tools/overview/process-decision-program-chart.html
Andersen B. Tools for implementing improvements. In: O'Mara P, editor. Business process improvement toolkit. 2nd ed. Milwaukee, WI: ASQ Quality Press; 2007. p. 237-49.
Tague N. The tools. In: O'Mara P, editor. The quality toolbox. 2nd ed. Milwaukee, WI: ASQ Quality Press; 2005. p. 93-521.