Book excerpt: Provides much of the information needed to organize a reliability program at a company or in a plant that does not currently have one. Features a simple description of a number of reliability subjects and techniques in a mannerthat readers can easily understand. Describes the data that must be collected and the analysis that should be done at each phase during the lifecycle of a physical asset. Starts the user down the path of collecting data, mapping failures to causes and implementing the elements of a comprehensive reliability program in an order that best serves his needs. Devotes a chapter to pattern recognition and identification of the relationships between identified patterns and failures. Provides real-life examples. Contains examples of documents and spreadsheets needed to apply recommendations at the readers own plants and shops. The Little Black Book of Reliability Management provides the reader with a fresh but comprehensive perspective on the subject of reliability management. It challenges the reader to consider "what he has a right to expect" based on his current reliability programs. And it describes the programs and discipline needed if the reader desires the "right to expect" a higher level of reliability performance. This unique resource is perfect for individuals working in plants and in other organizations that are dependent on the reliability of complex physical assets. Introduction What do you have a right to expect? Patterns and RelationshipsLearning about a Defect Malfunction Reporting DiagnosticsTroubleshooting - Digression Concerning Facts Failure Analysis "Bucketing" Information Analysis Creating a Comprehensive Reliability Program General Comments on Reliability Methods Conclusion Appendix 1: Typical Malfunction Reporting and Defect Analysis System Appendix 2: References for Further Reading