Introduction Every organization faces unexpected issues—but how you respond defines your success. When deviations from standard procedures are mismanaged or ignored, the result can be catastrophic: product recalls, regulatory fines, and irreparable brand damage. A deviation in manufacturing refers to a temporary or unplanned departure from approved procedures, specifications, or standards during the production process. […]
The PPAP Process Flow The PPAP process flow (Production Part Approval Process) is a cornerstone of modern manufacturing quality systems, particularly in automotive and industrial sectors. It ensures that every part delivered meets customer expectations by validating that the production process can consistently produce conforming components. PPAP is part of the Advanced Product Quality Planning […]
Why You Should Stop Calling It an Engineering Change and Start Saying Enterprise Change When I hear the phrase Engineering Change, alarm bells go off in my head. Not because I have something against engineers—I am one—but because the term limits the conversation and the scope of our thinking. In my decades of experience, I’ve […]
The Need for Transparency in Testing In the high-stakes world of automotive product development, demands to deliver vehicles on schedule often collide with the critical necessity for transparency in testing results. When timelines tighten and executive pressure mounts, the temptation to “fast-track” projects at the expense of rigorous verification grows. Yet, ensuring transparency in testing […]
Introduction In today’s competitive market, understanding the gears of product development is crucial for delivering successful products. Each element—like requirements elicitation, configuration management, and risk management—acts as a gear in a well-oiled machine. When these gears work in harmony, teams can accelerate innovation, minimize risk, and maximize the value of their products. This is not […]
Why Purchasing Matters in Project Management Purchasing is a cornerstone of successful project management, directly impacting cost, quality, and schedule. Purchasing and supplier selection figure prominently in product development and project management, emphasizing that effective purchasing is not just about buying goods or services—it’s about strategic supplier selection, risk management, and aligning procurement with project […]
Understanding Metrics Masking Failure in Automotive Projects In the automotive industry, project metrics are essential for tracking progress, ensuring safety, and delivering quality products. However, as Jon M. Quigley emphasizes, metrics alone do not guarantee project success, especially when they confirm what stakeholders already want to believe rather than reveal the actual state of a […]
The above proverb applies to business in general and supply chains specifically. The best time to create a resilient supply chain is when it is developed. The next best time is before the traumas, such as tariffs, hit. More likely, though, we will be pressed into reaction, maybe. Our businesses must consider their contribution to […]
The image is clickable and will take you to the book offer at the store. Introduction to the 5 P’s of Risk Management™ Risk management is a cornerstone of successful project execution and organizational resilience. A structured approach to risk management mitigates potential setbacks and enhances decision-making and resource allocation. The 5 P’s of Risk […]
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 […]