What is a potential consequence of tampering with a reliable process?

Tampering with a reliable process can introduce increased variation and instability. When a stable process is operating within its natural variability, any unnecessary adjustments or changes made can disrupt its balance. These changes often result in inconsistent performance, as the system becomes more sensitive to external factors, leading to fluctuations in output. This instability can negatively impact quality, efficiency, and predictability of the process.

In contrast, improving efficiency or guaranteeing consistent quality typically requires a deep understanding of the process and making informed, data-driven decisions rather than arbitrary changes. Clear task definitions for workers may enhance productivity, but they do not directly relate to the consequences of tampering with a process. Ultimately, an intact process is ideal for maintaining reliable outputs, while tampering can compromise that reliability.