Techniques are in place to accurately predict electrical product design reliability, and the reliability of the manufacturing process during the pre-hardware stage of the development cycle. Preliminary predictions may be made quickly at a very early stage to establish the program reliability impact before commitment. Full stress reliability predictions, product design and manufacturing process FMECA's may also be developed at various stages of the development cycle. The extensive application of computer technology streamlines this process. The timeliness, scope, and depth of this information allows management to effectively commit limited resources to achieve higher reliability product and process designs. Throughout the development cycle, it is now possible to understand and manage the design reliability of the program and communicate this information effectively to the customer.
