Re: ASQ & 6 Sigma

[Rip Stauffer <ripstaur@vabch.com>]

Linda,

Well, when you get back, I hope you read this. Rather than berate you, I
applaud you.

I believe you and Myron are correct. I think that the DEN needs to be
better represented at ASQ. I believe that therein lies a great
opportunity, IF WE WILL TAKE IT.

Others are steering the ASQ now, perhaps. I think they might welcome
some of the great voices you mentioned in your message, if they would
come forward and be heard. I intend to submit a paper for consideration
at the next conference. Mine is not one of those great voices, so I will
probably be turned away, but it's worth a try. If we believe our message
is better, we should make sure it's heard. 

I believe we have the knowledge and experience to make a difference. I
don't believe we are too "inbred" or "cultish;" I do, however, fear that
we stand in grave danger of being perceived that way if we don't get out
and discuss this philosophy in the open, with quality people who can
take the message and run with it.

I say these things, however, as (admittedly) one of the least
experienced Deming Disciples in the DEN. If others have become somewhat
disillusioned from beating their heads against the ASQ wall for years
with no relief, I can't blame them for abandoning that hope. I can share
some of that sentiment. I have had to sit and watch the Deming
philosophy watered down to almost nothing in my own organization over
the last seven years; but, having said that, I still harbor enough
idealism to believe that this IS a better, more rational approach to
quality and leadership, and I am still passionate that it should be
heard. 

ASQ has the infrastructure and the membership. I think we should begin a
positive marketing campaign to take this message back in to ASQ.
Frankly, I don't see a better opportunity. If someone (anyone) has an
idea, I'd be glad to hear it. I am leaving the service in a couple of
months, and am still looking for some direction in which to channel my
energy.

Rip Stauffer
Naval Leader Training Unit
ripstaur@vabch.com
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