Whether you are currently developing an ISO 9001 based system, or you have come to the conclusion that your current system is working ineffectively, this article will provide plenty of valuable guidance.

Critical Thinking is thinking that is purposeful and directed. During the early industrial revolution, employees were considered machines.  Employers neither wanted nor expected them to think.  Today in our constantly changing and evolving work places and with the constant requirement to improve our products our services and our prices, no organization can exist, let alone succeed without the active participation of their employees.

The 8D problem solving process has become the default process for the automotive industry in North America.  But 8D should not be considered an automotive process.  It is anything but.  The 8D process 8D (8 Discipline) problem solving is a simple process to work with, and it can be very effective.

First and foremost successful organizations must have a consistent strategic planning prime direction.

This direction must be the basis for a Strategic Plan.  Organizations need a single belief that is the foundation for every strategy, direction or decision.

The words ‘Mission’, ‘Vision’ or ‘Values’ have all been so severely overused as components of buzz word management that I hesitate to even use them here.

Contingency plans are required for the automotive quality system standard, TS 16949.  While the idea is great, the requirement, or at least the way it is worded, gets it wrong.