Articles by Jim L. Smith

When faced with most problems dealing with processes, products, or service, quality professionals typically implement two types of remedial actions which were handed down to us by experts like Dr. Joseph M. Juran, Dr. Frank Gryna, et al. “Control of nonconforming product” and “root cause analysis with corrective action” are two separate and essential processes.

Quality at the source (QATS) has been used well before lean manufacturing became so popular. Many people in the quality function have applied the principles especially at critical work areas to detect nonconforming items and prevent them from moving forward in the process.

It shouldn’t come as a surprise, but even after all these years the ISO9001 quality management system (QMS) requirements still come under attack and mostly from those in the quality profession. I recently read another super critical appraisal of ISO9001 from someone who commented they were on the “front lines.” I’m not sure what front lines they’ve been on, but it’s obviously not the same ones I’ve been on.

The recent implementation of the new quality management system requirements has generated concerns about many issues including documents and standards. 

It’s not enough to just think about it or plan for it, wish or hope or imagine it.

Last month’s column focused on statisticians and their need to transition to leaders. In order to do so, one must understand the difference between managing work/projects and leading others.

I had a discussion recently with someone who, for three decades, had been performing a statistical function at a large manufacturing company. He couldn’t understand why, in spite of excellent job performance reviews, his company had furloughed him indefinitely.

During my courses preparing quality professionals to successfully take certification exams offered by American Society for Quality (ASQ), one topic that constantly comes up is the challenge of getting organizational management to support quality initiatives.

The question of where to focus to maximize effectiveness is a conundrum.

Six Sigma is still one of the most popular methodologies in use today. As proof all one has to do is read the periodicals and textbooks or attend an ASQ section meeting or conference.