D1 Step – Team Formation

What Is D1 in the 8D Process? #

After the problem has been identified and accepted in D0 step (Plan / Problem Awareness), the next step is D1: Establish the Team. This step is about bringing the right people together to solve the problem.

The 8D process is a team-based problem-solving method, not an single person exercise.
Each department person involved and contributes unique insights.

“The strength of 8D is depend on diversity and knowledge of the team.”

In the automotive industry, this is referred to as forming a Cross-Functional Team (CFT) or IATF described as Multi-Disciplinary Team (MDT).

Therefore, the purpose and objective of the D1 Step are to:

• Select a competent, authorized, and multidisciplinary team to address the problem.
• Ensure every function related to the problem is available in analysis.
• Define roles and responsibilities in the 8D process.
• Assign a Team Leader and Champion (Management representative) to track progress.

How to update D1 Fields from 8D Template (Explained) #

The 8D Analysis Template has a clear D1 section titled: “Create Team / Team Formation”

Let’s review 8D template and each field exactly as it appears and understand what to record in D1 field.

Sr. No. / Name

List all team members in sequence. Every person listed should be actively involved in identifying, analyzing, or implementing actions.

Department / Function #

This defines which area of the organization each person represents. Each function provides a different viewpoint:

Telephone / Email #

Document communication details to ensure quick contact during 8D reviews. This helps when coordinating containment or verification activities.

Team Leader #

This person acts as the main driver of the 8D process, responsible for:

• Scheduling meetings.
• Coordinating with departments.
• Ensuring progress of each “D” step.
• Communicating status to the Champion / Manager and, if required, to the Customer.

Champion (Optional but Recommended) #

While not always explicitly mentioned in all 8D, most automotive suppliers nominate a Champion (often the Quality Manager or Plant Head).
Their job is to remove roadblocks, approve actions, and ensure management commitment.

 Key Responsibilities in D1 #

Tools Used in D1 Step #

Tips for Effective 8D Team Formation #

1. Include at least 3–5 functional departments. Don’t make 8D a “quality-only” activity.
2. Choose members with process knowledge and decision power. Avoid purely administrative representatives.
3. Define clear responsibilities. Each person should know what data or analysis they must provide.
4. Communicate expectations clearly. In the first meeting, explain timeline, customer impact, and urgency.
5. Use regular review cadence. Weekly 8D review meetings keep actions on track.

Summary – Key Takeaways from D1 Step #

• D1 is the foundation of team-based problem solving.
• Include all relevant departments connected to the product and process.
• Assign a competent Team Leader and a Champion.
• Use structured tools like RACI matrices and meeting trackers to maintain accountability.
• The success of the next steps (D2–D8) depends heavily on the quality of your D1 team.

“A strong team doesn’t just find the root cause and solve problem, they build a culture of shared responsibility.”

Practical Example (D1 Step – Seat Frame Welding Defect Case)

“Weld spatter and weak joint on LH Seat Frame Bracket found at customer line.”

Here’s how the D1 Team Formation section would be filled:

Team Leader: Rahul Patil (Quality)
Champion: Rajesh Kulkarni (Quality Manager)

Linking D1 to Next Steps

After your team is formed and approved by the Champion, move to next step D2 – Problem Description.

Use your team’s inputs to define the problem clearly using Is / Is Not or 5W2H methods.

In many organizations, the D1 team also identifies a “provisional containment owner” who immediately acts or responsible for containment action on suspect material.