Re: Criticism

[dhartman@phdinc.com]

"I would rather use the words "comments or suggestions". All criticisms are
ment to indicate shortcomings but usually they are not  accompanied with
suggestions to how to rectify those shortcomings. Our life will be much
more productive in a more friedly atmosphere, if we don't use the word
criticism and use the word suggestion, please, instead."

As I look to Webster's, I see that "criticize" is defined as "to analyze and
evaluate", and "criticism" is defined as "the act of criticizing" (now Webster
does add "esp. adversely", but it doesn't state that ALL criticism is adverse).
I know that I'm being critical here, but I get tired of coming up with "new"
words and phrases that say the same thing as what I was saying previously, just
because someone is unwilling to admit (and may even be offended by the fact)
that all of us (no matter our IQ, level of education, or walk in life) may have
an idea that could make their work better.

I was once coerced into using a document that we referred to as a "Problem Note"
because the recipients of our "Corrective Action Request" forms were taking
offense with receiving a CAR and we needed "something less offensive" for
requesting action to "improve" certain issues.  Well, after using the "Problem
Note" for some time we found that the recipients were beginning to be "offended"
by receiving these "kinder, gentler" forms.  We went back to using the CAR, and
enforcing (by escalation where necessary) gaining responses to them.

I firmly believe in the value of "constructive criticism".  There are not many
tasks that I am responsible for that are accomplished without soliciting input
(in the form of criticisms) from trusted peers or superiors, and I strive to be
open-minded to their
criticisms/recommendations/suggestions/thoughts/ideas/improvement
initiatives/(insert your own words).

David Hartman
dhartman@phdinc.com