The reliability of any product depends on the reliability of the individual components and joints within the product. Whether individual components and joints have the reliability required boils down to two basic aspects of engineering – selection and control.
The appropriate form (i.e. shape, dimensions, features) and materials for components and joints must be selected during product design. Then, systems must be put in place to control fabrication of components and joints, ensuring their form and materials are as specified.
So, who’s responsible for this selection and control? My answer is in this article on the Accendo Reliability website.