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Project Management & Agile · Intermediate

Rule of Seven

Control chart heuristic: seven consecutive data points on one side of the mean indicate a non-random pattern.

Definition

Even within control limits, such a run suggests a special cause should be investigated. Formal run rules such as Western Electric or Nelson rules define additional patterns.

Example

Seven weeks in a row above the mean signal the process has shifted.

Exam tip

Points within limits can still indicate an out-of-control process.

Related terms