Quality Control Series : Leadership

For more than a century companies have been enamored with the notion that if they could improve quality control they could improve their profits. Historically, as well as statistically this has proven out. (Deming. TQM. Six Sigma...)As we've become more technologically advanced, the need for quality has intensified. Not only are products more complex communication, distribution and quality control is much more complex. Often we improve the products but forget to improve the process, or more importantly the communication flow.

The difference between surviving and thriving in today’s competitive market place often comes down to an collection of minutes. Lost in the invisible world of your business employees are making thousands of small but important decisions that as a whole will dramatically effect your success. The decision to check that job for the second time. Small conversations on the front counter with your customers. The way the phone is answered. A note left for the next shift. Hidden conversations between employees that effect morale.

One decision made incorrectly will not kill your business, but the collection of decision making will exponentially effect your future. To often we only think of leadership as managers and executives. As you make strategic plans and set protocol and procedures for your culture, remember the only way to reach success is to help each one of your employees become better decision makers and better leaders.

Quality starts with leadership.