Process reliability is defined as the maximum reliability point where the data indicates that a mechanical or production process is under control. Analysing existing processes can uncover inefficiencies or poor design techniques that could be improved. These improvements could result in more efficient manufacturing, increased reliability and overall cost reduction.

The Barringer process, developed by Paul Barringer, is a reliability technique for identifying problems that have significant opportunities for improvements. This technique uses failure rate distribution for analysis and presents important facts as an engineering graphic, which is useful for solving business problems. This analysis provides the evidence needed for root cause analysis for the process.

Parameters to be defined for the production line represent the demonstrated capability (volume, wattage, etc.) of the process as it is plotted among the higher production output values, especially those consistently close to a straight line on the probability plot. It shows normal production with respect to time when all is functioning properly. Parameters are also entered for maximum production capacity of the factory under ideal operation and control (design capacity). Such values are required for calculating efficiency and utilisation losses, and minimising costs and maximising product integrity.