Method · reference manual

What is MSA?

Measurement System Analysis

In 30 seconds

MSA is the set of studies that assess whether the data produced by a measurement system (gauge, method, operator and environment) is reliable enough to base decisions on. Unreliable measurement rejects good product or passes bad.

How does it work?

  • Repeatability and reproducibility (Gage R&R) are studied.
  • Bias, linearity and stability are assessed.
  • Attribute studies are run for qualitative (go/no-go) checks.

Often confused with

MSA and calibration

Calibration checks a gauge’s accuracy against a reference; MSA evaluates the variation of the whole measurement system.

Common mistakes

  • Relying only on a calibration certificate and skipping MSA.
  • Running the study on parts that do not represent process variation.

From a QWorks perspective

MSA is part of the QWorks platform vision; the aim is to keep measurement system results linked to the related controls and actions.

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