Re: Balanced Scorecard

[BCoop1116@aol.com]

I agree that the balanced score board is a valid way to display numbers and 
analyze them using techniques that are outlined in the book.  

The more I read about one particular way being the "best way" the more I am 
reminded of Dr. Russ Akoff's statement about numbers.  He said "we are not 
confused about numbers we are confused about too many numbers."

I have been inside many companies that have numbers all over the place but no 
analysis.  Rip's recent comments on design of the data collection system 
reflected that very clearly.  DR Deming had an interesting view of all the fancy 
collection systems, that were in most cases automated.  He would say "so 
simple, a pencil a paper and thoughtful analysis was all you needed."  Still sounds 
true to me.  Myron's quote from Winston Churchill hit it on the head.  
Everyone is still looking for the instant pudding. The SPC techniques are not new and 
neither is the ability to analyze the results.

Most companies remind me of what is happening in Iraq.  We are there and we 
understood the reason to commit ourselves.  Now the question is are we willing 
to stay the course and see where it takes us as a country.  Most companies are 
not willing to stay the course.  They are waiting for that next "new thing."  
Maybe there is in this business "nothing new under the sun."  Our choice as 
leaders, etc., is to overcome the focus on short term results and look for 
future gain.  Hard to do but worth the effort.

Maybe someday we will have come full circle and then we can go back to 
Frederick Taylor and start all over again.

Bill Cooper