4. Apply value analysis and meet cost targets

The function/cost analysis consists in reaching an objective by starting from a total cost of the product or sub-assembly (input data) and adapting the parameters that are the function levels (in agreement with the customer or decision-maker).

Functional analysis consists in identifying, characterizing and prioritizing product functions.

Each function is defined by an infinitive verb, the criteria being the characteristics or quantities used to assess the way in which a function is fulfilled or a constraint respected; the levels are the quantities or objectives qualifying the criterion.

Flexibility is the set of indications that can be used to modulate the level of the criterion (flexibility class corresponding to the levels: imperative, not very negotiable, negotiable, very negotiable).