Felförebyggande

Felförebyggande, often translated as error prevention or mistake proofing, is a systematic approach to designing processes, products, and systems to minimize the occurrence of human errors. The core principle is to make it impossible or extremely difficult for an error to be made, rather than relying solely on human vigilance to catch mistakes after they happen. This is often achieved through built-in constraints, feedback mechanisms, and simplifying procedures.

Key techniques in felförebyggande include standardizing procedures, using checklists, designing interfaces that are intuitive and reduce ambiguity, and implementing interlocks that prevent incorrect operations. For example, a USB drive is designed with a specific shape that only allows it to be inserted in one orientation, preventing the user from trying to force it in the wrong way. Similarly, in software, confirmation prompts before deleting critical data serve as a form of error prevention.

The goal of felförebyggande is to improve safety, quality, and efficiency. By proactively identifying potential error points and implementing countermeasures, organizations can reduce the likelihood of costly mistakes, accidents, and rework. It shifts the focus from detection and correction to prevention, which is generally a more effective and economical strategy. This approach is widely applied in various fields, including manufacturing, healthcare, aviation, and software development.