Out of the Crisis

Deming, W. Edwards (1986) "Out of the Crisis", MIT Press (ISBN 0-911379-01-0)

This landmark book delineates Dr. Deming's revolutionary management philosophy for establishing quality, productivity, and competitive position, including his renowned 14 Points for Management. The book is an easy read, but the message requires deep thought. The knowledge and wisdom contained on the pages is priceless and every bit as valid today as when it was written. Unfortunately, Dr. Deming's philosophy regarding management systems is way ahead of its time and seldom utilized. "Deming offers American managers the recipes for success... provides the questions that have to be asked to determine what it is that managers are managing." --M. Schrage, The Washington Post The aim of this book is transformation of the style of American management. Transformation of American style of management is not a matter of reconstruction, nor is it revision. It requires a whole new system, from the foundation upwards. The first step in the transformation is to learn how to change: that is, to understand and use the 14 points (of Dr. Deming) and to cure themselves of the 7 deadly diseases (of Dr. Deming). Long-term commitment to new learning and new philosophy is required of any management that seeks transformation. Management must understand design of product and of service, procurement of materials, problems of production, process control, and barriers on the job that rob the hourly worker of his birthright, the right of pride of workmanship. All industries, manufacturing and service, are subject to these same principles of management. The book is detailed in illustrating his philosophy and its underpinnings. There are tons of examples of why conventional management wisdom is terribly flawed, why "Quality Control" of the lot inspection sort is wasteful, and how you can begin to fix it. Just don't be in the market for "Instant Pudding". reviewed by Ross