Most practitioners as well as academics relate Robust Design to the name Taguchi, and thus to the parametric optimisation of largely matured systems based (virtual/ physical) experimentation strategies and statistical analyses. As these approaches are costly and usually require detailed geometry information, traditional Robust Design and Tolerancing approaches are commonly criticised for not being applicable in early phases of development.

In a new direction, and to unlock its full potential, the SIG therefore suggests a design-focused approach in order to bring Robust Design into earlier stages of the design process. This includes new and pragmatic tools, which are also applicable in short iteration cycles. For this purpose, the SIG aims at providing a forum for academics as well as practitioners to:

• network, share knowledge, experiences, and case studies.
• discuss research on Robust Design and Variation Management strategies across different domains.
• standardize terminology and frameworks.
• discuss and test out theory and methods on real case studies in a hands-on workshop format.
• identify synergies and the potential for collaboration in research and education.