From FMEA to the Decision Diagram - Identifying Evident and Hidden Failure Modes

Published on February 18, 2026

In Unit 5, we transition to the RCM Decision Diagram, focusing specifically on identifying Evident and Hidden Failure Modes. This unit demystifies the process of using the RCM Decision Diagram, a pivotal tool in the Reliability Centered Maintenance (RCM) process. We begin by analyzing each Failure Mode from our FMEA by putting it through the Decision Diagram to determine if its effects are Evident or Hidden during normal operations. Through some examples, we illustrate how to navigate the RCM Decision Diagram.

About the Author:
 
Nancy Regan is an RCM expert with 26+ years of experience in analysis, training, and implementation. She helps organizations cut costs, prevent failures, and build a Reliability Culture. With a B.S. in Aerospace Engineering from Embry-Riddle, she authored The RCM Solution, a guide to successful RCM programs.
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