right first time

**Right first time** is the **the quality objective of completing each unit correctly on its first pass without rework, retest, or correction** - it is a direct indicator of process capability, flow efficiency, and operational discipline. **What Is Right first time?** - **Definition**: RFT measures percentage of units that pass all required steps with no interruptions. - **Difference from Final Yield**: Final yield can hide recovery loops, while RFT reveals true process quality. - **Key Drivers**: Standard work quality, process stability, poka-yoke coverage, and clear specifications. - **Operational Impact**: High RFT correlates with low WIP, short cycle time, and predictable output. **Why Right first time Matters** - **Throughput Efficiency**: Correct-first-pass production maximizes available capacity. - **Cost Reduction**: Avoiding rework eliminates duplicate labor and test expense. - **Schedule Reliability**: Fewer rework loops reduce planning volatility and expedite pressure. - **Quality Confidence**: Consistent first-pass conformance lowers escape risk. - **Lean Foundation**: RFT is a prerequisite for stable flow and pull-based operations. **How It Is Used in Practice** - **Step-Level Tracking**: Measure RFT by station, product, and shift to expose localized loss points. - **Root-Cause Elimination**: Address recurring first-pass failures with standardized corrective-action discipline. - **Prevention Reinforcement**: Use training, setup verification, and error-proofing to sustain improvements. Right first time is **the clearest expression of operational quality maturity** - when work is done correctly once, cost, speed, and reliability all improve together.