While non-engineers tend to rely upon heuristic thinking for decisions, engineers traditionally use deterministic modeling in their tasks. However, the challenges posed with cutting-edge applications can drive us beyond deterministic to statistical engineering:  Merging engineering modeling with Design of Experiments, Response Surface Modeling, Monte Carlo Simulation, Variance Transmission and Bayesian methods.

The melding of engineering modeling with statistical approaches - Statistical Engineering - empowers engineers to develop confidence for ourselves and our customers that our products are likely to be successful and that we can flawlessly meet or exceed expectations.

Eric Maass retired as Senior Director for Medtronic Restorative Therapy Group, responsible for developing and leading the integration of statistical engineering into product development programs. Eric was recognized with Medtronic’s individual Star of Excellence award for 2012 and recognized as a Medtronic Technical Fellow.  He is also a Life Senior Member of IEEE and was recently elected Vice Chairman of the EMBS Phoenix Chapter for IEEE.

Eric joined Medtronic in October 2009, after 30 years with Motorola in roles ranging from Research and Development through Manufacturing, to Director of Operations for a $160 Million business and Director of Design and Systems Engineering for the Wireless group of Motorola SPS. 

Eric was a co-founder of Six Sigma at Motorola and the Lead Master Black Belt for DFSS.  His book, Applying DFSS to Software and Hardware Systems, provides clear step-by-step guidance for developing innovative and compelling new products and technologies, while managing the business, schedule and technical risks. His newest book, “Flawless Launches: Profitable Products” summarizes the approach with Med Tech case studies.