Book excerpt: This text explores the re-emergence of product excellence in the design and manufacturing process. It is a knowledge-based approach to manufacturing that attempts to design products that maximize all desirable characteristics in a product design, while at the same time minimizing lifetime costs, including manufacturing costs. DFX objectives include quality and reliability, safety, serviceability, user friendliness and environmental friendliness. This book explains techniques and procedures behind DFX and how it is being incorporated into sound product design.