An interview with industry leaders John Blankensop and Gerben de Haan
In an era of rapid globalization and fierce competition, the role of quality management in manufacturing is a subject of intense debate. To shed light on this critical issue, we spoke with two seasoned experts, John Blankensop and Gerben de Haan.
A Declining Focus on Quality
Both experts agree that quality management has lost some of its strategic importance in recent years. John Blankensop, with over four decades in the field, recalls the vibrant quality culture of the 1980s, as a result of the Japanese Quality Crisis, and contrasts it with today's more hands-off approach. Gerben de Haan, a technology leader, echoes this sentiment, citing a lack of leadership support and the overwhelming burden on quality teams as key indicators of the problem.
Root Causes of the Decline
Several factors contribute to this decline. Globalization and the relentless pursuit of lower costs have squeezed profit margins, forcing companies to prioritize short-term gains over long-term quality investments. Additionally, the slow pace of digital transformation in manufacturing has hindered the adoption of advanced quality tools and technologies.
The quality profession itself is also facing challenges. According to Blankensop, a lack of clarity about the role of quality in the modern organization and a failure to adapt to the changing business landscape have contributed to the decline.
Reviving Quality Management
To restore quality management to its rightful place, both experts emphasize the need for a cultural shift. Blankensop advocates for leadership to drive cultural change programs, focusing on the three tenets of a culture of quality: aspiration, acuity, and actualization. He stresses the importance of aligning quality goals with overall key business objectives.
De Haan highlights the role of technology in driving this change. By making quality data accessible and transparent, organizations can foster a culture of ownership and accountability. He also emphasizes the importance of learning from other industries, such as software development, where innovations have occurred that can be ported to manufacturing.
The Future of Quality Management
The future of quality management lies in reinforcing its ability to not just reduce costs, but also its ability to help organizations adapt nimbly to changing customer expectations and market dynamics. Both experts believe that a focus on prevention rather than correction, coupled with advanced quality management solutions, is essential.
Furthermore, the next generation of quality professionals brings a fresh perspective. Their emphasis on purpose and efficiency can drive positive change within organizations.
As the manufacturing industry continues to evolve, the role of quality management will undoubtedly remain critical. By understanding the challenges and embracing new approaches, quality professionals can help their organizations achieve sustainable success.
If you would like to view the entire interview, you can watch the replay of Quality Talks episode 2: Wake up Quality Management!
