design of experiments (DOE)

(1) An efficient method of experimentation that identifies factors that affect the mean and variation with minimum testing.

(2) A systematic approach to varying the input-controllable variables in the process and analyzing the effects of these process variables on the outputs. When employed in conjunction with statistical process controls, it can minimize process variability.

References: 

JEP131A, 5/05

JEP132, 7/98