Deming

[Ad absurdum per aspera <JTCHEW -at- LBL -dot- GOV>]

In memory of W. Edwards Deming, who passed away recently, here
are his "14 Points."  Thanks to Ron Graham <ecaxron -at- ariel -dot- lerc -dot- nasa -dot- gov>
for typing them in and posting them to sci.engr.

1.   Create constancy of purpose for improvement of product and service.

2.   Adopt the new philosophy (don't accept poor workmanship and poor
     service).

3.   Cease dependence on mass inspection.

4.   End the practice of awarding business on price tag alone.

5.   Improve constantly and forever the system of production and service.

6.   Institute training (and do it formally and the right way, rather than
     simply by word of mouth).

7.   Institute leadership (that is, management should lead the way).

8.   Drive out fear.

9.   Break down barriers between staff areas.

10.  Eliminate slogans, exhortations, and targets for the work force.
     (They never work.)

11.  Eliminate numerical quotas.

12.  Remove barriers to pride of workmanship.

13.  Institute a vigorous program of education and retraining.

14.  Take action to accomplish the transformation.  Now.


Joe
"Just another personal opinion from the People's Republic of Berkeley"
Disclaimer: Even if my employer had a position on the subject,
I probably wouldn't be the one stating it on their behalf.