CTQ (Critical to Quality)
Measurable quality characteristics derived from the Voice of Customer — with target, limits and priority.
Also known as: CTQ, Critical to Quality, CTX tree
A CTQ is a precise, measurable characteristic used to assess process or product quality from the customer's perspective. Every CTQ arises from translating a VoC quote into an operational metric with target value and limits.
- CTQ (Critical to Quality) — functional/quality characteristics ("fit", "accuracy", "no wait time")
- CTC (Critical to Cost) — cost-relevant quantities (material price, processing cost)
- CTD (Critical to Delivery) — on-time delivery, lead time
- CTS (Critical to Safety) — safety-critical features, often with regulatory limits
- Kano model — prioritizes CTQs at the chosen tree level into must-be, performance and attractive features, instead of weighting them all equally
See also
Used in
Sources
- Pyzdek, T. & Keller, P. — The Six Sigma Handbook, 5th Edition
- George, M. L. — Lean Six Sigma Pocket Toolbook, McGraw-Hill
- Womack, J. P. & Jones, D. T. — Lean Thinking, Free Press, 2003