By Jon M. Quigley Baja SAE Carolina 2025: Practical Projects for Engineering Students We all need a place to practice our craft.  It is not enough to have a degree in a field; it takes more than a degree, and we must learn how to apply it. The same is true for students with engineering […]

Photo is from SAE International and is a clickable link to the SAE International Baja website. Baja SAE Carolina: Behind the Scenes of an Epic Off-Road Challenge By Jon M. Quigley If you’ve ever wondered what goes into hosting a world-class engineering competition, this event is it.  From Technical Inspection protocols ensuring every student-built vehicle […]

By: Jon M. Quigley Modern automotive engineering hinges on a meticulously managed Vehicle Development Lifecycle, integrating advanced verification, validation, and configuration management to meet safety, performance, and compliance demands. This blog post explores how these pillars ensure robust vehicle architecture while aligning with industry trends like software-defined vehicles and autonomous driving.  We have spent many […]

Unlocking Innovation and Lateral Thinking Creative problem-solving is a dynamic approach that pushes individuals and teams beyond conventional boundaries. By nurturing a culture of curiosity, open-mindedness, and experimentation, creative problem-solving empowers you to tackle challenges in new and unexpected ways. When combined with lateral thinking, you can uncover solutions that might otherwise remain hidden.  We […]

Introduction to New Product Development New product development is the process of transforming an idea into a marketable product or service. It involves market research, product design, testing, and eventually launching into the marketplace. By following a well-structured approach, businesses can reduce risks, optimize resources, and set a clear trajectory for growth.  We have spent […]

Understanding Risk Management in Product Development and Project Management Jon M. Quigley Risk management strategies are essential for success in the dynamic world of product development and project management. Whether launching a new product or driving a critical project, the ability to foresee, assess, and mitigate risks can make or break your efforts. As Jon […]

Understanding QS9000 and IATF 16949 Standards For organizations in the automotive industry, selecting and implementing the right quality management system is vital for operational excellence. Two prominent standards, QS9001 vs. IATF 16949, offer distinct frameworks for achieving quality objectives.  Over the decades, we have been involved with both approaches in many ways, from being audited […]

Introduction by Jon M Quigley In today’s complex business environment, we have a variety of audit types to ensure accountability, transparency, and compliance. This article explores the types of audits, their benefits, and the frequent challenges organizations encounter. Whether preparing for an audit or considering implementing one, understanding these aspects is essential. Why Audits Are […]

Risk Management Through the Lens of the Muses Introduction to Risk Management Insights Risk management is more than just a checklist; it’s an art and science. Drawing inspiration from Greek mythology’s Muses, we delve into creative approaches to identifying, analyzing, and mitigating risks. Each Muse symbolizes a unique perspective that enriches our understanding of risk […]

Recipes for Success and the Limits of Repeatability by: Jon M. Quigley Product development is often associated with processes. We would say that these processes are essentially product development recipes.  Product development and the parallels to cooking are undeniable. Both require carefully crafted recipes, skilled cooks, and adaptability when conditions change. But just like high-altitude […]