FCS3

is required to insure consistent product performance. Suitability is the degree to which the product performs as intended sometimes referred to as “fitness for use.” Consistent performance is the degree to which TDP performance is repeatable and predictable. Figure 2 illustrates the process for developing product-specific specifications and standards for a particular manufacturer and product that can result in suitable and consistent performance. The collaborative, often repetitive communication and coordination between the product manufacturer, compounder, and crumb rubber producer is vital to the process. Figure 2 Approach to Working with Stakeholders to Develop Product-Specific Specifications and Standards for a Particular Product

Product Development and Quality Fundamentals The best way to understand and identify CTQ requirements is to interview product users and customers. Another technique that can be used is to study competitive products in order to understand key product specifications and product benefits that are being offered in the marketplace. This is a worthwhile exercise since it may be necessary to position the new tire derived product against these competitive products. Crumb rubber is the raw material that is used for the manufacture of TDPs. The physical characteristics of crumb rubber affect the performance of the final product. A considerable

Contractor’s Report

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