Naturally, methods may be added or deleted from this sequence provided consideration is given to the best order of analyses. Detailed information about a failed component often facilitates selection of analytical methods and can provide insight into some of the factors that may have contributed to the failure. Certain test methods may be suggested by knowledge of the component manufacturing history, and this could lead to a quicker solution. The history of a failed part is also of great importance to the analyst. All information concerning the actual record of a part can serve to illuminate the causes of a failure.
Proper planning can ensure that an investigation is efficient and cost effective.
Particularly in the case of a high visibility failure or if an assembly line shutdown is imminent, careful planning is necessary to hasten problem resolution. Haphazard or unsystematic investigations are unprofessional and can be wasteful of time, effort, and manpower. All pertinent features should be examined visually, and thorough notes should be taken for each component associated with a failure analysis. Many macroscopic features and characteristics can suggest certain failure modes and circumstances. Fracture surfaces can exhibit an identifiable origin, progression marks, direction marks, and postfracture damage, all of which can be significant to the failure.