Beyond Operational Definitions

[Stein Smaaland <smaaland@sys.no>]

Dear DEN                  Oslo, November 17th ,2001

Wonderful that a Deming Dictionary is planned
to be established. I seem to remember that this
was initiated also some years ago... so: Good
luck with http://www.ukdn.net, Alan!

Without disturbing this important activity,
I do have a complementary question.

In what degree will a dictionary with descriptions,
with operational definitions, be sufficient for
the Mission of the DEN? For the Aim of the Institute?

Are we missing, ignoring, some basic point?

I wonder if these basics include to understand eachother.
To understand eachother. Cross lines.

For, isn't understanding THE Prerequisite for SoPK?
P1: to IDENTIFY the most relevant SYSTEM? 
P2: to CHART the most critical PROCESSES?
P3: to RESPECT (also with our hearts) Other PARADIGMES?
P4: to HEAR what Other humans are SAYING?

I never spoke to Dr. Deming face to face.

But, I know, I know, that he would have come up with
some wise answer.

Dear senior DENizen, dear teachers,
dear sources of further wisom;

What do YOU think he would have answered?

Are we missing some basic point?
Are we doing the right things?
(Or are we still digging our individual holes deeper?
My personal hole has become rather profitable. But I
do NOT feel I make a difference! It has become pure
repetition.)

(Any on-line answers and comments will be
honestly appreciated.)

Still learning
Deming Scandinavia
Stein
(stein.smaaland@deming.no)
(www.deming.no)