A free online reference for statistical process control, process capability analysis, measurement systems analysis, control chart interpretation, and other quality metrics.
The key to chart interpretation is to initially ascertain the type of variation in the system—that is, whether the variation is coming from special or common causes. When the system has only common causes of variation, it is referred to as stable or in control. If, however, the system has special causes of variation, it is referred to as unstable, or out of control.
Look any of the conditions listed below, which indicate that the process is statistically unstable:
When you have determined whether or not there is special cause variation, declare the system stable or unstable.