This is the second article in a series that I intend to write, in which, we explore the 14 points for management, set forward by W. Edward Deming in his book entitled “Out of the Crisis”, which was originally published in 1986 according to Amazon (My copy has copyright 1982).
The second of the 14 points is:
2) Adopt the new philosophy.
In this chapter Dr. Deming points out the precision of the Japanese rail system and the fact that one would only need to give the departure times of the trains to give instructions for travel to some one new to the country. This new level of precision has penetrated every aspect of Japanese life and since the time of the writing has taken over most of the world. There is a new much higher mark to aim for than what was considered acceptable in the past. We as Americans can no longer rest on our laurels. The new standards of quality and precision in the world have surpassed what was once acceptable.
The focus of the text in this section describes the problem of defective products and the lack of understanding that just because your supplier replaces the defective product and absorbs the transportation cost does not mean that you are not paying for those expenses. That cost will just be added to the next shipment you receive.
A new attitude aimed at continues improvement and elimination of defects is in order. Do not be satisfied with the replacement of shoddy products but insist the elimination of the cause of those defects.
