What is process capability?

Process capability refers to how well a process can produce outputs that meet predetermined specifications or quality standards. It is a statistical measure that evaluates the inherent variability of a process and its ability to produce products or services within specified limits consistently. When assessing process capability, metrics such as Cp and Cpk are often used to quantify how much of the process output falls within these specifications.

This concept is crucial in quality management and Six Sigma, as it helps organizations identify areas for improvement and ensure that they can meet customer expectations reliably. Achieving a high level of process capability indicates that the process is stable and predictable, leading to fewer defects and higher quality outputs. Hence, this measure directly correlates with the success of a process in fulfilling its intended function efficiently.