I took this from the book, The New Economics written by W. Edwards Deming in 1992. I invite the interested to read this book. At the top of page 36, it reads:
"Do not confuse coincidence with cause and effect (Gipsie Ranney). True: anyone could make a list of companys that are doing well, even though their management follows one or all of the above bad practices (WED earlier in the book covered his 14 points with examples of how things are done today with the Western Management Philosophy juxtaposed to how things should be; with anecdotes). Any of these companies might do much better were the management to learn a theory of managment.
If anyone were to study without theory such a company, i.e., without knowing what questions to ask, he would be tempted to copy the company, on the pretext that "they must be doing something right." To copy is to invite disaster." (end quote)
Many folks are jumping onto the Six Sigma bandwagon without knowledge of both sides, IMHO. In my earlier post, I suggested that further understanding was necessary prior to starting off on any trek. I believe that this is consistent with what Deming was saying in the above quote. Folks are seeing the apparent successful deployment of Six Sigma in GE and Allied Signal. It should be noted that the longterm effects of thier programs are unknown and their success may not entirely correlate with Six Sigma practices. This is fact. I am also aware of proper uses of the six sigma tool (not philosophy). A tool, any tool, properly used can yield positive results. A tool misused can cause disaster.
If GE is successful with this plan, then we will be too. Rubbish! Be careful, do your homework, and if you still so elect, try Six Sigma. It is up to you.
Regards,
Kevin
p.s. I have not read Dr. Harry's books on Six Sigma. I have read several of his articles and articles about him. I do not like what I see. I haven't plans to purchase either of his books in the future. Normally, I will read books on opposite opinions to mine to see if there is anything of merit in them. There very well might be something. Still, from all that I have still to read, this is a low item on a very long list of must read items.
[This message has been edited by Kevin Mader (edited 05 January 2001).]