Why should your organization use the ISO 9001 Standard? An honest reply can say a lot about how effectively the standard can improve your business. If you are using the standard as a marketing gimmick (a plaque on the wall; a logo on a website), or just because a customer requires it, then the standard will be a burden, not a benefit. If the honest reason for implementing the standard is improvement, then it can truly help your organization become better. (more…)

In recent articles we have discussed several aspects of business finance.  Topics so far have included internal controls, capital planning, and managing working capital. While almost every business pays attention to financial performance, studies show that small and medium sized businesses in particular frequently do not engage in thorough financial planning - if at all.  (more…)

Last week we explained how profit is used to drive growth, which is one aspect to your cash needs. But what are you going to do with the excess cash from your business? Your options include purchase assets, spend it on various expenses, hold it in an investment account, pay down debt, or give it back to the shareholders. (more…)

Our theme this month is about setting and reviewing your strategic management plan.  Now is the time to set and review your vision & mission and goals & objectives so that they are in place and fully communicated throughout the organization at the start of the New Year.  (more…)

In the most recent article, we explained how a clear statement of vision can guide members of the organization. This over-arching statement of principle can add clarity and meaning to regular activities. Now is the time for reviewing vision and mission statements, and as well as reviewing and setting goals and objectives for the coming new year. (more…)

Do you know your organization’s vision statement?  Every organization should have one, and it should serve as a guiding principle for its members.  Then, the organization’s mission statement should directly align with the vision statement, and in a more specific way state how the visions is going to be fulfilled.  (more…)

The year 2007 is rapidly coming to a close. With the start of October we are already into the fall holiday backstretch, where the weeks fly by even faster. The best way to close out this business year, especially at the leadership level, is to start thinking about next year. (more…)

Let’s say, just prior to taking a commercial flight, that you are talking to your pilot and discussing the technical aspects of the trip. During the discussion, you learn that the plane only has one instrument gauge – an air speed meter. “We just like to focus on one thing, and be really good at it,â€? explained the pilot. “After we get really good at regulating our air speed,â€? the pilot continues, (more…)

Leadership has been the theme of our recent articles and it was also an important theme at the ASQ St. Louis Spring Quality Conference. On conference day, the keynote address featured leadership, followed by a full-day of Leadership Track breakout sessions. Several of the pre-conference workshops focused on aspects of leadership as well. “Leadership is an important topic for an ASQ conference,â€? said Steve Mundwiller of Bizmanualz, Section 1304 Conference Chair. (more…)

Our recent articles have explored the topic of innovative leadership and its effect on an organization.  While good leaders who initiate structure and show consideration are typically successful, innovative leaders can take organizations to new heights.  (more…)