Reliability (glossary)
The probability of a system or system element performing its intended function under stated conditions without failure for a given period of time. (ASQ 2011)
Source(s)
American Society for Quality. 2011. Glossary: Reliability. [[1]]
DoD. 2005. DOD Guide for Achieving Reliability, Availability, and Maintainability. Arlington, VA, USA: U.S. Department of Defense (DoD). Available at: [2]
Discussion
This definition is similar to the one found in the Defense Acquisition Guidebook, and the commonly used texts. It has four important parts. First, reliability is defined as a probability that a system or system element performs some function. That function must be explicitly defined. Second, the stated operating conditions (which can include environment, load, and any other factor affecting life) must be explicitly stated. Third, a failure must be defined. Last, the appropriate time scale must be specified. This time scale can be chronological, or it can by cycles of operation, miles, landing, or any other measure that is related to the assumed failure mechanism.
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