The seven basic tools of quality are a standard set of graphical methods for improving quality. They can help with understanding variation and determining the root cause of errors in processes.

Perhaps the worst quality failure of modern times is Boeing’s 737 Max disaster.

OK.

Now that we have planned in part one what we want to see accomplished, step two, toward increased productivity, is to share information effectively.

Workplace productivity is a huge challenge for nearly every company, business, and organization.

Two of my articles (the first regarding standards, standardization, and standard work; and the second on

I recently visited the Key West home of famed writer Ernest Hemingway. The descendants of Hemingway’s many six-toed cats still live on the grounds and join visitors as a part of their tour. “A cat has absolute emotional honesty,” wrote Hemingway.

Editor’s note: The following browsable offering from Davis Balestracci represents a good chunk of his knowledge base.

This year marks the 35th anniversary of a remarkable and unfortunately also singular event in my career: In 1985, my employer, United Electric Controls (UE), elected to remove time clocks from the factory.

What a year.