|
|
|
Business Management Articles / Quality Managementhttp://www.rtdonline.com/BMA/QM/15.htmlPROMOTION OF QUALITY VALUES AND ATTITUDESby Rene T. DomingoTwo things determine the success of any productivity or quality improvement program:1. application of the right tools and techniques2. formation of correct values and attitudesIn this paper, I will not dwell on the first item for numerous seminars, courses, books, and materials have treated it in painstaking detail. In fact, many of them have overplayed the importance of tools and techniques that they have misled companies and individuals into thinking that possession and mastery of this know-how are a guarantee of success and concrete results. Many productivity/quality improvement programs have failed or have never taken off because management and workers have not developed the proper attitudes and values to support and sustain these programs. Programs that have failed are usually short-lived or have brought or been bringing superficial results. Techniques give direction to the program; but values are needed to carry them out properly and continuously.From hereon, I shall refer to all productivity/quality improvement programs as "productivity programs".RESPONSIBILITYThere are two basic values one must inculcate to carry out a productivity program: responsibility and teamwork."Do it right the first time!" is the main battle cry of productivity programs. This brief but powerful motto is not a matter of technology but a matter of responsibility - and carrying it out. In my rough estimate, if everybody does what they are supposed to do the first time every time - nothing more, nothing less - productivity will at least double immediately. A responsible worker will and should feel ashamed of himself if he does not do his work right the first time or anytime; similarly, he should feel proud and fulfilled if he executes it properly. An irresponsible worker could not care less if he does it wrong the first...