How to Write a Product Test Plan

Evaluating a new product or part should always begin with development of a test plan. CIRAS routinely walks Iowa companies through this essential step by asking a few key questions:

• What do we need to know? What questions are we trying to answer?
• What are the variables that can affect the product’s performance or impact market acceptance?
• What testing data is needed to help answer the questions?
• What are the environmental conditions in which the product will operate?

Every product or process involves multiple variables that can alter the performance of the item being evaluated. The challenge is figuring out which variables will have the strongest effect.

Design of Experiments (DOE) is a proven methodology that uses statistical analysis to determine which variables have the greatest influence. The DOE process includes:

• Developing problem statement and objectives
• Reviewing process and verifying stability
• Identifying factors (inputs) and their levels to be studied
• Determining experimental “runs” required
• Running the experiments and collecting the data
• Conducting statistical analysis using the test results
• Developing conclusions based on the results

To seek guidance with product testing or to schedule a no-cost assessment, contact your Regional CIRAS Strategic Advisor or Project Manager John Roberts.

CIRAS provides several related services, including:

• Materials
• Nondestructive Evaluation
• Product/Process Design
• Finite Element Analysis
• 3D Printing