Articles by Jim L. Smith

Over the years I have been amazed at the discussion, sometimes not so friendly, by quality professionals and others on the subject of quality. It’s a simple word that we seem to have difficulty defining.

Motivation involves making it personal and stimulating a passion for excellence.

Let's talk about persistence and the role it can play in success.

These are turbulent times. We are inundated daily by the media with bad news about the economy. We’ve heard about declining markets, job loss, home foreclosures, declining net worth and evaporating 401(k) plans. Certainly, the news is unsettling, but this country has been there before and survived, and we will overcome again!

There is a fine line between success and failure. Sometimes the difference is hard to measure.

Everyday we are faced with challenges that seemingly put roadblocks in our path. We need to train ourselves to view these challenges as opportunities.

As you may have realized by now, I have a significant interest in the “human side of quality” and have written about this subject on many occasions. This topic is still on my mind, so here is some free investment advice for the future.

Continuing to learn is fundamental to adding to our knowledge and understanding.

Was Joseph M. Juran or Philip B. Crosby right about the definition of quality? Is quality “fitness for use” or “conformance to requirements?” I’ve pondered this issue a lot and my simple response is yes, but only in the broadest terms. It is necessary to be more explicit.

Do you ever think about what it takes to be successful? Do you ever think other people are more successful because they are smarter, more "in the know" or better connected?