Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) streamlines product development, configuration management, verification, and testing. Discover tools for efficient PLM and overcoming lifecycle challenges.  This is not an article on the tool selection process, or those that provide these tools. The genesis of this post is from a LinkedIn post that was subsequently taken down – for some […]

Introduction Product and system documentation is crucial in product development and manufacturing to ensure efficiency, quality, and long-term product support. These documents—including product specifications, system requirements, and design records—serve as blueprints for engineers, technicians, and future teams. When incomplete, outdated, or ignored documentation occurs, businesses face serious operational and financial risks. The genesis of this […]

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 […]

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 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 […]

Understanding Risks In project management, “Russian Roulette Risks” perfectly encapsulates the high-stakes, unpredictable challenges project managers often face. In risk management, there lies a deceptive and often overlooked danger: the illusion of safety born from previous success. This fallacy can lead organizations and individuals to mistakenly believe that a course of action is low risk […]