One of the best ways for quality management professionals to stay informed of industry news is to subscribe to quality management publications. There are many publications, trade journals and newsletters available that cover current trends in quality management; but rather than inundate yourself by subscribing to them all, you may want to pick and choose the ones that best meet your business's needs.

There is a huge selection of quality assurance publications to choose from. Where some are very limited and cover specific topics, others give an overview of the whole industry and offer a variety of resources. The trick is to get the most information out of the fewest resources, thus saving you money and keeping you well informed without consuming all your valuable time. When choosing a quality management books, magazines and journals, remember the following:

1. Order your quality management magazine directly from the publication's website, if possible, or you may miss out on subscription perks.

2. Some quality management magazines offer free trial subscriptions you can take advantage of.

3. When subscribing to publications, find out what period your payment covers. Make sure you receive any back issues within the time period you're paying for. Some publications may just begin subscription with the current issue.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Subscribe to publications on quality management and take advantage of the perks

Many publishers offer discounted pricing with subscriptions, in addition to other perks. Check to see if they offer free trial subscriptions or copies. You may even be able to cancel your subscription without payment or penalty if you are not absolutely satisfied.

I recommend: Quality Magazine is a quality assurance magazine dedicated to the issues of the manufacturing professional. Quality Digest covers many areas in quality management. Both publications often offer free subscriptions or discounted pricing. Check to see if you qualify. These magazines also produce digital editions and put out industry eNewsletters.

Take advantage of online quality management journals and magazines

E-mags and web publications have evolved for the better, and there are many benefits to taking advantage of them. Not only are they readily available, the medium also allows publishers to compliment articles with multimedia resources. You may be required to sign up as a member, but that can be an added bonus. It might get you access to free sample copies or journal archives.

I recommend: Quality Assurance Magazine offers up-to-date industry news, in addition to back issues. Six Sigma provides industry news as well, in addition to a publications marketplace and a discussion forum.

Join a professional association for access to quality improvement publications

If you own a business, you may consider becoming a member of an association for quality management professionals. As a member, you'll receive access to free publications, as well as other informational resources. If you sign up as a business, you can extend these services to your employees as well.

I recommend: The Quality Assurance Institute Worldwide, the International Organization for Standardization (ISO), and the American Society for Quality are all industry associations that offer online publications.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Check with your local library for publications on quality improvement, as many subscribe to online databases that include industry journals and magazines.