<P> Common tools and techniques of measurement systems analysis include: calibration studies, fixed effect ANOVA, components of variance, attribute gage study, gage R&R, ANOVA gage R&R, and destructive testing analysis . The tool selected is usually determined by characteristics of the measurement system itself . An introduction to MSA can be found in chapter 8 of Doug Montgomery's Quality Control book . These tools and techniques are also described in the books by Donald Wheeler and Kim Niles . Advanced procedures for designing MSA studies can be found in Burdick et . al . </P> <P> Factors might include: </P> <Ul> <Li> Equipment: measuring instrument, calibration, fixturing . </Li> <Li> People: operators, training, education, skill, care . </Li> <Li> Process: test method, specification . </Li> <Li> Samples: materials, items to be tested (sometimes called "parts"), sampling plan, sample preparation . </Li> <Li> Environment: temperature, humidity, conditioning, pre-conditioning . </Li> <Li> Management: training programs, metrology system, support of people, support of quality management system . </Li> </Ul> <Li> Equipment: measuring instrument, calibration, fixturing . </Li>

In which stage of a six sigma project are measurement system analysis (gauge r&r) studies performed