Dr. W. Edwards Deming's innovative quality management theories have greatly advanced the quality management process. Deming believed that inspecting and correcting defects after production was ineffective. He believed that, since it could cost as much to correct a defective product as it had originally cost to produce it, the quality issue was critical to address
before production, rather than afterward.
Deming asserted that quality control issues arise from poor management. According to Deming theory, management's job is neither to assess employee output numerically (encouraging speed at the expense of quality) nor to inspect product quality after production, but rather to create a production process and company culture that encourage exceptional workmanship. Some ways Deming proposed to do this (from his 14 points of management) are these:
1. Share company goals with employees.
2. Drive out fear, create trust and raise employee morale.
3. Provide effective leadership.
4. Reduce conflict between departments.
5. Focus on quality rather than quotas.
6. Implement on-the-job training.
7. Work continually to improve quality and productivity.
8. Adapt to changing economic and industry needs.
Build a thorough understanding of Deming theories and how they can benefit your company
Numerous websites provide valuable information about Deming theory. In addition to diagrams and summaries of Deming's principles, you'll find various videos and instructional materials that can help you develop the background knowledge and practical expertise to put Deming's theories to work for your company.
videos and training materials to help you better understand Deming management theory. And ManagementWisdom.com provides an entire collection of e-learning course modules to help you thoroughly master Deming quality management principles.
Consult an expert to make the Deming management method a reality for your business
Consultants with knowledge and experience in the quality management theories of Deming can guide you in maximizing the benefit of his principles in your own company's unique environment.
contacts and consultants recommended by the Deming Cooperative provide guidance that's consistent with Deming theory, since all were friends, colleagues or students of Deming prior to his death. In addition, Langford International, Inc. offers consulting services, seminars based on Deming theory and other quality management products and information. Marcia Daszko & Associates also provides consulting based on her knowledge of Deming's theory.
Take advantage of tools and resources designed to help you make the most of Deming's theory
Widely available online tools and resources can help you more easily implement Deming's principles. Videos, flowcharts and links to numerous websites offering other Deming products, information and services let you choose the resources most valuable to your business.
- Never underestimate the value of Deming's management theory to your company. If your budget is small, take advantage of free information and tools available online and consider advancing to paid products, training or consulting services when they become more affordable to you.
