Case studies and other articles on DOE you can view from your browser.

(Click here for a list of reprints you can order online.)

• Statistical Design of Experiments on Fabrication of Starch Nanoparticles—A Case Study for Application of Response Surface Methods
  This paper use the fabrication of nanoparticles as an example for showing a statistically-rigorous approach to design and analysis of pharmaceutical experiments. April 2008 (doe_for_starch_milling.pdf--485 KB)
  
  
• Pharmaceutical Manufacturer Increases Yield with Response Surface Methods
  MannKind Corporation used designed experiments to identify and optimize critical process variables involved in producing a small molecule substrate for use in pulmonary drug delivery. Pharmaceutical Processing, April 2008
  
  
• Design of Experiments Helps Reduce Welding Defects from 24 to 0 per Month
  A major Tier 1 automotive supplier wanted to improve the already high level of quality in their manufacturing process welding nuts to a metal seat frame. They contacted Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU) and requested a design of experiments (DOE) study to determine root causes of torque failures and areas of improvement. March 2008 (MTSU.pdf--99 KB)
  
  
• Designed Experiment Optimizes Method for Removing Endocrine Disrupters
  A team of researchers performed a designed experiment to evaluate potential methods for removing three common endocrine disrupters, optimizing the temperature and pH at which the removal levels were the highest. University of Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada, February 2008 (univ_of_sherbrooke.pdf--93 KB)
  
  
• Implementation of High Throughput Systems for Media and Process Development
  In this poster, Invitrogen discusses their strategy to fully optimize robust cell culture systems using design of experiment (DOE) statistical tools in high throughput (HTP) bioassays. February 2008
  
  
• Response Surface Methods (RSM) for Peak Process Performance at the Most Robust Operating Conditions
  This article starts with the basics on RSM before introducing two enhancements that focus on robust operating conditions: Modeling the process variance as a function of the input factors and Propagation of error(POE) transmitted from input factor variation. It discusses how to find the find the flats—high plateaus for maximum yield and broad valleys that minimize defects. Proceeding from International SEMATECH Manufacturing Initiative (ISMI) Symposium on Manufacturing Effectiveness. October 2007 (RSM_for_peak_performance.pdf--355 KB)
  
  
• Design-Expert® 7.1 software review
  Felix Grant of Scientific Computing World finds that Design Expert 7.1.3 builds on the many improvements from earlier upgrades. Scientific-Computing.com, November 2007
  
  
• Applicazione di specifiche tecniche DoE per la progettazione di una macchina per il confezionamento di filtri per sigarette
  This presentation in Italian details a DOE case study on a filter cigarette packaging machine design using Design-Expert software. October 2007
  
  
• Design Challenge
  This case study details how the Intertape Polymer Group (IPG) used Design of Experiments (DOE) is used to solve an adhesive tape production problem. Adhesives & Sealants Industry, September 2007
  
  This article was also published as "Design of Experiments Helps Solve Adhesive Tape Production Problem" in Paper & Packaging magazine, pages 20–21, March/April 2008
  
  
• Response Surface Methods for Peak Performance
  This is the third article of a series on design of experiments (DOE). The first publication provided tools for process breakthroughs via two-level factorial designs. The second article illustrated how to re-formulate rubbers or plastics using powerful statistical methods for mixture design and analysis. The author now brings the focus back to process improvement and shows how to hit the sweet spot of high yield at lowest possible cost. Rubber and Plastics News, Technical Notebook, August 20, 2007 (rubplast3_rsm.pdf--239 KB)
  
  
• The 10 Most Common Designed Experiment Errors
  This article offers 10 tips for avoiding the most common designed experiment mistakes. It is derived from Jeff Hybarger's article in the December 2006 Stat-Teaser newsletter. Design Product News, June 2007.
  
  
• Space Shuttle Debris Impact Tool Assessment Using the Modern Design of Experiments
  This article describes a methodological study focused on evaluating the application of MDOE to future operational codes in a rapid and low-cost way to assess the effects of cavity geometry uncertainty. DeLoach, R., Rayos, E. M., Campbell, C. H., Rickman, S. L.; and Larsen, C. E.: "Space Shuttle Debris Impact Tool Assessment Using the Modern Design of Experiments". 45th AIAA Aerospace Sciences Meeting and Exhibit, Reno, NV Jan 8-11, 2007. (spaceshuttledebris.pdf--903 KB)
  
  
• Rethink Experiment Design
  This article details the advantages of design of experiments (DOE) over the OFAT (changing only one factor at a time) approach to experimentation. By varying factors at two levels each, but simultaneously rather than one at a time, experimenters can uncover important interactions. Chemicalprocessing.com. November 2006.
  
  
• Interpreting Power in Mixture DOE—Simplified
  This mini-paper by Pat Whitcomb answers the question, "I evaluated my planned mixture experiment and found that it had very low power. Could you tell me what is wrong with the design?" ASQ Statistics Division Newsletter, Vol. 25, No. 1, pp. 5-8. Fall 2006.
  
  
• Optimisation of EDM Fast Hole Drilling through an Evaluation of Electrode Geometry
  In the application of EDM fast hole drilling, response surface design was used to optimize both drilling and electrode wear.
  
  
• Automated Enzyme Assay Design and Optimization
  This poster presents the use of design of experiments (DOE) and Design-Expert® software to optimize enzymatic assays. Presented at the SBS Conference. September 2006. (enzyme_assay_design.pdf--1.71MB)
  

• Application of Design of Experiment (DOE) Techniques to Process Validation in Medical Device Manufacture
  This paper provides an overview of the application of DOE techniques during key aspects of process validation and discusses two practical examples from medical device manufacturing. The attendant benefits of this type of procedural approach to the medical device sector are considered. From the results obtained, it is clear that meeting process validation requirements can be taken as an opportunity to better understand and improve manufacturing processes. As such, DOE techniques are pivotal in effectively achieving these aims in a manner that provides for regulatory compliance. Journal of Validation Technology. February 2006 Volume. 12, Number 2

• University & Industry Collaboration to Solve Welding Quality Problem Using Design of Experiments (DOE)
  A local automotive seat supplier experienced a major quality problem in the fabrication of the metal seat frame used for the front bucket seats of automobiles. DOE was used to help solve the quality problem. 2006 CIEC Conference, January–February 2006
  Click here to see the corresponding poster presentation.
  
  
• DOE for Coatings
  This article is a basic introduction to design of experiments (DOE) for coatings formulations and processes. A slightly different version was published in the Coatings Technology Handbook, 3rd Edition by CRC Press in 2005.
  
  
• Planning for the unexpected (Review)
  In this article Felix Grant reviews Design-Expert 7 software and compares it to other statistical software packages. Scientific Computing World. February/March 2006
  
  
• Sticky Optimization
  This paper demonstrates a statistical methodology that builds on subject-matter knowledge to objectively fine-tune both processes and product formulations. The concept is illustrated with an adhesives case study. (stickyoptimization.pdf--97KB)
  
  
• Using Design of Experiments to Assess Escherichia Coli Fermentation Robustness
  A statistical study was conducted to assess fermentation process robustness in the manufacture of an active pharmaceutical ingredient. DOE was used to establish critical parameters and their acceptable ranges. BioProcess International. October 2005 (fermentationrobustness.pdf--297KB)
  
  
• Trimming the FAT: Part II
  The first article, "Trimming the FAT out of Experimental Methods," presented arguments against OFAT techniques in favor of multifactor DOE. This follow-up article offers a case study that illustrates how a two-level factorial DOE can reveal a breakthrough interaction. A similar article appeared in OE (Optical Engineering) magazine. September 2005. (doeprimer2.pdf--27KB)
  
  
• Trimming the FAT out of Experimental Methods
  A primer on DOE versus the traditional OFAT method of experimentation. A slightly different version of this article was run in OE (Optical Engineering) magazine. June/July 2005. (doeprimer.pdf--79KB)
  
  
• PCR Process Optimized via Split-Plot DOE
  This paper illustrates the use of design of experiments (DOE) and split-plot design to quickly and effectively determine the factor settings that maximize amplification in a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) experiment. As presented at the 2005 ASQ World Congress. May 2005. (pcr_via_split-plot.pdf--136KB)
  
  
• Reducing 300mm Wafer Coating Defects without Compromising Uniformity
  Recently, using DOE techniques, applications engineers in Rolla, Missouri were able to reduce bottom anti-reflective coating (BARC) defects on 300mm wafers and implement a new process. An edited version of this article was run in Semiconductor Manufacturing Magazine. May 2005. (washburndoe.pdf--86KB)
  
  
• How Experimental Design Optimizes Assay Automation
  An innovative blend of hardware, software and the right training in statistical know-how supercharges research automation. This article was published online by Quality Digest. April 2005.
  
  Click here for an unedited version of the article originally published in ADVANCE for Medical Laboratory Professionals. June 28, 2004 (optimizeassays.pdf--375KB)
  
  
• “Design of Experiments” Training Banishes Purple-Paper Blues
  A paper mill uses DOE to pre-define the appearance and shade of paper before full production. Published in Solutions!, Online Exclusives, Vol. 88(4), April 2005. Also appeared in "Ahead of the Curve," a weekly newsletter published by TAPPI.
  
  
• See a new Italian article on mixture design featuring Design-Expert® software. PROGETTAZIONE DI MISCELE PER LA PRODUZIONE DI VERNICI ALL’ACQUA--D.Foletto, S.Povolo, SAMIA s.a.s., February 2005
  
  
• Creating Superior Electroluminescent Backlighting with Mixture Design
  Engineers use mixture design to create thinner, whiter keypad backlighting. A slightly different version was published in Product Design & Development. February 2005 (backlightingmixdesign.pdf--138KB)
  
  
• Low-Viscosity Phthalates for Flexible Packaging Polyurethane Adhesives
  DOE is used in this study demonstrating the versatile compatibility of a unique polyester polyol, PD-90 LV, with both polyester and polyether polyols. Adhesives & Sealants Industry. February 2005. Requires Login to view.
  
  
• Combining Computer-Aided Statistical Design of Experiments with Traditional Design of Experiments to Meet EC2000 Criteria.
  New ABET criteria require that chemical engineering students be able to “design and conduct experiments.” Experimental design may be interpreted as either developing methods and procedures to achieve experimental goals, or as statistical “Design of Experiments” (DOE). Auburn University's Dept. of Chemical Engineering incorporates both approaches in their unit operations lab course to satisfy EC2000 criteria and achieve beneficial learning outcomes. ASEE Southeast Section Conference 2004 (doe_to_meet_EC2000 Criteria.pdf--419 KB)
  
  
• Designing Glaze Colours
  Mixture design is used to develop a predictive model for estimating an entire range of glaze colours with far fewer test tiles than are normally required. Ceramics Technical. Issue 21, Pages 30-37, 2004
  
  
• Improving Solder-Paste Processes Through Experimentation
  Proper application of solder paste onto a PCb is essential in surface mount assemblies. In this case study DOE was used to understand this process, and ultimately to improve electrical yields. Surface Mount Technology (SMT). December 2004
  
  
• Response Surface Methods for Process Optimization
  This article explores how optimal experimental design can map performance in the presence of multifactor linear constraints.  Desktop Engineering. November 2004
  
  
• Solving Process Issues at an ASIC Fab using Design of Experiments
  Engineers solved two perplexing wafer production mysteries using design of experiments (DOE), saving the company $180,000 a year. MICRO Magazine. July 2004
  
  
• Interpreting Power in Mixture DOE—Simplified
  Adapted by Mark Anderson from a detailed manuscript by Pat Whitcomb. July 2004 (powerinmixsimp.pdf--100KB)
  
  
• Automated Optimization of a Multiplex PCR* Using SAGIAN™ AAO Software for the Biomek® FX Liquid Handling System
  Beckman Coulter, Inc. developed Automated Assay Optimization (AAO) FX software for its Biomek FX liquid handling system. In this application study they demonstrate how to use it together with Design-Expert® software from Stat-Ease, Inc. to optimize biological assay conditions. June 2004
  
  
• Screening Process Factors In The Presence of Interactions
  This article introduces a new, more efficient type of fractional two-level factorial design of experiments (DOE) tailored for the screening of process factors. These designs are referred to as “Min Res IV.” Presented at AQC 2004 Toronto. May 2004 (aqc2004.pdf--134KB)
  (Click here for an Italian translation—222KB.)  
  
  
• Taber Test or Oscillating Sand? DOE Improves Polycarbonate Plasma Coating Process
  Researchers at Exatec, LLC, determined that the oscillating sand test reveals better wear assessment information for polycarbonates. This finding has allowed the company to optimize coating processes. Paint & Coatings Industry (PCI). March 2004. Requires Login to view.
  
  
• Formulating by Design
  To simplify formulation tasks when searching for hot-melt solutions, Stepan Co. developed a design of experiments (DOE) ‘mapping' approach to their new ortho-phlathic-based polyol products. They wanted to discover how the products work within their specific applications. Adhesives & Sealants Industry (ASI). March 2004. Requires Login to view.
  
  
• That Voodoo We Do—Marketers Are Embracing Statistical Design of Experiments
  When properly applied to marketing, Design of Experiments (DOE) is a marketer's silver bullet. (This article was published in DMA--The Direct Marketing Association in March 2004 under the same name, and as "Multivariable Testing" in the March 2004 issue of Admap magazine.)
  
  
• Optimizing Formulas by Experimental Design
  Changing and then re-testing just one parameter at a time still seems to be the norm for the formulation chemist, but it is not the most productive approach. In fact, this “shotgun” approach increases the probability of missing the best possible finished product. A more reliable and expedient method of optimizing a formulation is by design of experiments (DOE). The NY Chapter Society of Cosmetic Chemists' newsletter "Cosmetiscope". March 2004
  
  
• Unearthing Optimum Soil Treatments (Original article is no longer available on web site. A slightly different version is available here.)
  Weak subgrade soils are often chemically treated, or modified, to add strength and stability to support the heavy construction vehicles required for building highways. DOE was used to develop a treatment that enabled contractors to quickly establish stable subgrades. Hard Hat News. January 2004
  
  
• An Efficient Approach to Cell Culture Medium Optimization—A Statistical Method to Medium Mixing
  Sigma-Aldrich Biotechnology used DOE to increase cell growth and productivity for a particular recombinant CHO clone. (cellculture.pdf—118KB) Reprinted with the permission of Sigma-Aldrich Corporation. January 2004
  
  
• Company Seeks New Customers: Engineers as Credible Marketers
  Trade publication articles written by engineers are a great marketing tool, but engineers are often not polished writers. The solution—work with specialty writers. The Business to Business Marketer. (eng-marketers.pdf—232KB) January 2004. Also see "Engineers as Credible Marketers," IEEE*USA Today's Engineer. June–July 2004
  
  
• How to Use Graphs to Diagnose and Deal with Bad Experimental Data
  This article deals with thorny issues that confront every experimenter—how to handle individual results that do not appear to fit with the rest of the data. (baddata.pdf—70KB) November 2003 (A somewhat modified version of this article was published in Quality Engineering. April 2007.)
  (Click here for an Italian translation—156KB.)
  
  
• Augmented Ruggedness Testing to Prevent Failures (exclusive content)
  Failures in the processing and use of products can often be prevented by applying a form of DOE called ruggedness testing. Check out this article to see how it's done for machine-made bread. Quality Progress (ruggednesstest.pdf—116KB) May 2003
  
  Knead for Speed (excerpt of below article on machine-made bread)
  Case study from Today's Chemist at Work magazine. February 2002
  
  Screening Ingredients Most Efficiently with Two-Level Design of Experiments (DOE) (original manuscript)
  A DOE on machine-made bread shows how clever application of statistical methods quickly screens alternative ingredients to see which, if any, impair the desired reaction. (breaddoe.pdf—513KB)
  
  
• DOE Software Paints Picture of Powder Coating Defects
  How do you react when a defect arises within one of your top powder coating products that defies conventional problem-solving techniques? You look for answers with DOE. Powder Coating (morton.pdf—59KB) April 2003
  
  
• The Influence of Physico-Chemical and Process Conditions on the Physical Stability of Plasmid DNA Complexes using Response Surface Methodology (This link requires a subscription or payment to view--http://www.babonline.org/bab/037/0225/bab0370225.htm.)
  This paper introduces a new method of assessing the engineering effects of process and material factors on the colloidal properties of plasmid-DNA delivery systems based on response surface methodology (RSM) and experimental techniques. Biotechnol. Appl. Biochem. (2003) 37, (225–234) April 2003
  
  
• Using Design of Experiments to Make Processes More Robust to Environmental and Input Variations
  This article explains why standard factorial designs (one array) offer a cost-effective alternative to parameter designs (two array) made popular by Taguchi. It then discusses advanced tools for robust design that involve application of response surface methods (RSM) and measurement of propagation of error (POE). Paint and Coatings Industry (PCI) February 2003. Requires Login to view.
  
  
• The Six Sigma Method and Design of Experiments
  This article by Peter Peterka (www.6sigma.us) explains what Six Sigma is and DOE's role in it. The DOE FAQ Alert. (sixsigma&DOE.pdf—72KB) December 2002
  
  
• Mixture DOE Uncovers Formulations Quicker
  This article offers a simple case study that illustrates how to put rubber or plastics formulations to the test by using powerful statistical methods for mixture design and analysis. Rubber & Plastics News. (mixdoe.pdf—1013KB) October 2002
  
  
• Small, Efficient, Equireplicated Resolution V Fractions of 2^k designs and their Application to Central Composite Designs
  Gary W. Oehlert & Pat Whitcomb present a class of equireplicated, irregular fractions of two-series designs constructed algorithmically using the D-optimality criterion. Presented at the Fall Technical Conference 2002. (small5.pdf—93KB) October 2002
  
  
• Design-Expert DOES it better (Review)
  Anny Dentener (www.foodinc.co.nz) reviews Design-Expert 6 for the food industry. Food Technology in New Zealand (www.foodtechnology.co.nz). (foodtech.pdf—77KB) September 2002
  
  
• Design, Analyze, and Optimize with Design-Expert (Review)
  Katherine T. Alben from the New York State Department of Health reviews Design-Expert 6 software for use in experimental chemistry. Analytical Chemistry. April 2002
  
  
• Technology Flexes its Muscles
  Design of experiments (DOE) was used to examine the effects of adhesive components in electron beam (EB) curable laminating adhesives for flexible packaging. Adhesives Age. (aa.pdf—1.22MB) March 2002
  
  
• Cost- Effective and Information-Efficient Robust Design for Optimizing Processes and Accomplishing Six Sigma Objectives
  Standard factorial designs (one array) offer a cost-effective and information-efficient robust design alternative to parameter designs (two -array) made popular by Taguchi. This paper compares these two methods (one-array versus two-array) in depth via an industrial case study. It then discusses advanced tools for robust design that involve application of response surface methods (RSM) and measurement of propagation of error (POE). (anderson-kraber.pdf—85KB)
  
  Also see this postscript to the article. (ps_re_Taguchi.pdf—120KB)
  
  
• Achieving Six Sigma Objectives for Variability Reduction in Coating Formulation and Processing
  Cover story from Paint & Coatings Industry. November 2001. Requires Login to view.
  
  
• Enhancing Solid-Phase Disk Extraction Performance with Design of Experiments
  Case study on 3M Empore extraction disks. American Laboratory (click here for the magazine article link). (3M_Empore.pdf—71KB) November 2001
  
  
• Sizing Fixed Effects for Computing Power in Experimental Designs
  Power tells us the probability of rejecting the null hypothesis for an effect of a given size and helps us select an appropriate design prior to running the experiment. This paper describes a general approach for sizing effects that covers a wide variety of designs. Quality and Reliability Engineering International. (power.pdf—341KB) July 27, 2001
  
  
• The Next Generation in Weatherable Hardcoats for Polycarbonate
  This paper received the Best Paper Award at the International Coatings for Plastics Symposium, June 4–6, 2001, in Troy, MI. Paint & Coatings Industry. June 2001. Requires Login to view.
  
  
• Engineering Software Quickens Product Launch
  Mary Kay case study from Packaging World magazine. January 2001
  
  
• Eliminate Nuisance Variability with a Latin Square Design
  Case study from Douglas Montgomery's, "Design & Analysis of Experiments", 5th Edition
  
  
• Designing Experiments that Combine Mixture Components with Process Factors 
  A version of this article appeared in PCI Magazine. (chem-3.pdf—200KB) November 2000
  (Click here for an Italian translation—150KB.) 
  
  
• A More User-Friendly Design-Expert - Design-Expert Release 6.01(Review)
  Software review in Quality Digest magazine. October 2000
  
  
• Design of Experiments Arms Telemarketers with Profitable Questions
  In this case study a major telecommunications company uses DOE to improve the sales effectiveness of incoming and outcoming customer calls. June 2000
  
  
• Pilot-to-Production Requires Design of Experiments to Unclog Herbicide
  Case study on how Aventis CropScience used DOE for Herbicide development. (herbicide.pdf—193KB)
  
  
• Using Simulation Software for Design of Experiment Training
  This article shows how Hot Rod Burnout—Championship Drag Racing® simulation software is used to make learning DOE fun. (dragracing.pdf—303KB)
  
  
• DOE It Yourself
  Fun science projects* compiled by Mark J. Anderson, Principal, Stat-Ease, Inc. (doe-self.pdf—43KB)
  
  
• Energy Project Relies on DOE
  Article originally in Quality magazine. A slightly different version appears here. (NREL.pdf—51KB) October 2000
  
  
• Design of Experiments Software Helps Clear Wafer Transport Traffic Jams
  Article in Micro magazine. July/August 2000
  
  
• Design of Experiments Increase Hot-Ink Roller Impressions (and Perceptions)
  by Jennifer Borkovich. Published in the May 2000 issue of American Ink Maker and in a web exclusive for PCI Magazine. April 2000. Requires Login to view.
  
  
• Success with DOE (Order Reprint #50)
  Article in Quality magazine. April 2000
  
  
• Save Runs, Yet Reveal Breakthrough Interactions by Doing Only a Semifoldover on Medium-Resolution Screening Designs 
  Via case studies, this paper reviews the strategy of foldover on low-resolution (III) two-level fractional factorials and demonstrates how to reduce experimental runs by making use of semifoldover methods to augment medium-resolution (IV) designs. (semifold.pdf—376KB)
  
  
• Statistical Technique Saves Big in Building Medical Cooler (Order Reprint #51)
  Article in Air Conditioning/Heating/Refrigeration News magazine. April 10, 2000
  
  
• Designing Better Experiments
  This article explains what DOE is and the benefits of having DOE software. MnTAP Source. Winter 1999, Volume 14, Number 1
  
  
• Computer-Aided Tools for Optimal Mixture Design
  Article in Paint and Coatings Industry. November 1999. This PCI link requires Login to view.
  
  
• Computer-Aided Tools for Optimal Mixture Design 
  A somewhat different version of the article above. (coatcat.pdf—52KB)
  
  
• Solving Core Shear with Design of Experiments
  Article originally in Job Shop Technology. A slightly different version appears here. (coreshear.pdf—162KB) March 1999
  
  
• Eight Keys to Successful DOE (Order Reprint #37)
  Quality managers who understand how to apply statistical tools for design of experiments (DOE) are better able to support use of DOE in their organizations. Ultimately, this can lead to breakthrough improvements in product quality and process efficiency. Quality Digest. July 1999
  
  
• Keys to Successful Designed Experiments 
  This article was presented at the Quality Management Division of American Society for Quality conference. (doe-keys.pdf—35KB) January 20, 1999
  (Click here for an Italian translation—295KB. Also see a PDF of the article as published in Automazione e Strumentazione. (ASsixsigma.pdf—583KB) June 2004
  
  
• Design of Experiments for Ruggedness Testing: Case Study on Paraffin Therapy Bath
  A version of this article appeared in Medical Device & Diagnostic Industry. (med-device.pdf—35KB) January 1999
  
  
• Nonexperimenter Tries Design-of-Experiments Software
  Article in Paint & Coatings Industry. November 1998
  
  
• Improve PCB Gold-Plating Yields Using DOE (Order Reprint #27)
  Case study in Asian Sources Electronics Engineer. November 1998
  
  
• How to Select Design of Experiments Software (Order Reprint #38 )
  Case study in Quality Digest. November 1998
  
  
• Experiments Uncover Source of Valve Failures (Order Reprint #42)
  Case study from Quality magazine. June 1998
  
  
• The importance of hierarchy in design of experiments (DOE)
  Article from Quality in Manufacturing magazine. March/April 1998
  
  
• Find the Optimal Formulation with Mixtures
  A version of this article appeared in Chemical Engineering Progress. (chem-2.pdf—56KB) April 1998
  (Click here for an Italian translation—435KB. Also see a PDF of this article as published in Ric-Mach Chimica News. (sixsigma.pdf—129KB) June 2004.)
  
  
• Achieving Breakthroughs in Non-Manufacturing Processes via Design of Experiments (DOE)
  Inspirational examples* compiled by Mark J. Anderson, Principal, Stat-Ease, Inc. (doe-non-mfg.pdf—103KB) 1998 (revised 2004)
  (Click here for an Italian translation—70KB.)
  
  
• Use of Replication in Almost Unreplicated Factorials
  This paper discusses supplementing Lenth's method by combining his estimate of error variance from small factorial effects with the pure error variance from replicate observations or (possibly) other estimates of error variance. Presented at the Fall Technical Conference. (use-of-rep.pdf—455KB) 1998 (This is an updated version of the 1992, "The Role of Pure Error on Normal Probability Plots" article below.)
  
  
• Tabletop Hockey Meets Goals for Teaching Experimental Design
  Instructions for one of the DOE It Yourself projects mentioned above. (hockey.pdf—365KB) 1997
  
  
• Mixing it up with Computer-Aided Design (Order Reprint #13)
  
  See how statistical tools for mixture design helped a kitchen chemist reformulate pound cake to hit the sweet spot of household tasters. A somewhat different version of this article appeared in Today's Chemist at Work. (cake.pdf—41KB) November 1997
  
  
• Design of Experiments (Order Reprint #15)
  Corporations across the nation are adopting DOE as a cost-effective way to solve serious problems afflicting their operations. The Industrial Physicist. September 1997
  
  
• Computer-Aided Design of Experiments for Formulations
  A somewhat different version of this article appeared in Modern Paint and Coatings. (paint.pdf—57KB) June 1997
  
  
• Make Breakthrough Improvements with Experiment Design
  A somewhat different version of this article appeared in Rubber & Plastics News. This article has been slightly modified to make it more current. (plastics.pdf—91KB) June 1997
  
  
• Software Sleuth Solves Engineering Problems
  A somewhat different version of this article appeared in Machine Design. (machine.pdf—43KB) June 5, 1997
  
  
• Statistical Software
  What to look for in a statistical software package. Science. December 1996
  
  
• Optimize Your Process—Optimization Efforts (Order Reprint #5)
  A somewhat different version of this article appeared in Chemical Engineering Progress. (chem-1.pdf—46KB) December 1996
  
  
• Robust Design—Reducing Transmitted Variation
  Talk by Pat Whitcomb and Mark Anderson that was presented at the 50th Annual Quality Congress.
  (robust5.pdf—132KB) May 1996
  
  
• A Balancing Act: Optimizing a Product's Properties
  Quality Progress. ©2002 American Society for Quality. Reprinted with permission. (derringer.pdf—139KB) June 1994
  
  
• Applying DOE to Microwave Popcorn
  Process Industries (PI) Quality. (popcorn.pdf—26KB) July/August 1993 (revised 2/98)
  
  
• The Role of Pure Error on Normal Probability Plots
  A look at augmenting the usual probability plot effects with points representing pure error. ASQC Quality Congress Transactions--Nashville, pp.1223-1229. (role-of-pure-error.pdf—344KB) 1992 (An update of this article was published in 1998. See "Use of Replication in Almost Unreplicated Factorials" article above.)