The objective of this work is to evaluate the extension of the use of QFD in Brazil, studying mainly the largest private companies, in order to identify the benefits and difficulties to implement this method as well as companies which already have experience in its use. To achieve this aim, an exploratory survey was carried out, with a non-random sample, using as technique a questionnaire sent by surface mail. The return rate was about 21% and the results showed that a bit more than 18% use the method. Companies started to make use of QFD during the 90s, showing that the use of QFD in Brazil is still relatively recent. Concerning the difficulties to implement QFD, the major problem was related to the lack of experience with the method. Regarding the benefits, the most important customer satisfaction, and teamwork and functional areas communication improvement. Additionally, the survey identified five companies with experience in QFD, which can be regarded as a reference in terms of the use of the method in the country. Finally, this work points at some perspectives for future research in this subject.
quality function deployment; QFD; product development; quality planning
