W. Edwards Deming
Early Life and Education
William Edwards Deming was born on October 14, 1900, in Sioux City, Iowa. He grew up in a modest family, and his early life was marked by economic hardships. His parents, William Albert Deming and Pluma Irene Edwards, instilled in him the values of hard work and education. Deming's family moved to Powell, Wyoming, where he attended high school. His academic prowess was evident early on, and he went on to earn a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering from the University of Wyoming in 1921. He furthered his education with a Master of Science from the University of Colorado in 1925 and a Ph.D. in Mathematical Physics from Yale University in 1928.
Career and Contributions
Deming's career began at the Western Electric Company, where he was introduced to the principles of statistical quality control. His work at the U.S. Department of Agriculture and later at the Census Bureau allowed him to refine his statistical methods, which would become foundational to his later work. During World War II, Deming taught statistical process control techniques to engineers and managers involved in war production, which significantly improved manufacturing quality.
The Deming System of Profound Knowledge
Deming's most significant contribution to management theory is the System of Profound Knowledge, which is a holistic approach to organizational management. It is composed of four interrelated parts:
1. **Appreciation for a System**: Understanding the organization as a system of interrelated processes and people. 2. **Knowledge of Variation**: Recognizing the causes of variation in processes and striving to reduce them. 3. **Theory of Knowledge**: Understanding that management decisions should be based on theory and knowledge, not just data. 4. **Psychology**: Understanding human behavior and motivation to foster a collaborative and productive work environment.
The 14 Points for Management
Deming is perhaps best known for his 14 Points for Management, which serve as a framework for transforming business effectiveness. These points emphasize the importance of creating a consistent purpose, adopting a new philosophy, ceasing dependence on inspection, and driving out fear, among others. They are designed to guide organizations in improving quality and productivity.
Influence in Japan
Deming's influence in Japan is legendary. After World War II, Japanese industries were struggling with quality issues. In 1950, Deming was invited to Japan by the Union of Japanese Scientists and Engineers (JUSE) to teach his statistical quality control methods. His lectures and seminars were instrumental in transforming Japanese manufacturing, leading to the country's reputation for high-quality products. Deming's work laid the foundation for the Total Quality Management movement and the rise of Japanese companies like Toyota and Sony.
Legacy and Recognition
Deming's contributions to quality management have been recognized worldwide. He received numerous awards, including the National Medal of Technology and Innovation in 1987. The Deming Prize, established in 1951 by JUSE, is one of the highest honors in quality management and is awarded annually to organizations that demonstrate outstanding quality management practices.
Criticisms and Controversies
While Deming's work has been widely celebrated, it has not been without criticism. Some argue that his methods are too theoretical and difficult to implement in practice. Others believe that his focus on statistical methods overlooks the importance of other management practices. Despite these criticisms, Deming's influence on modern management practices is undeniable.
Personal Life
Deming married Agnes Bell in 1922, and they had one daughter. After Agnes's death in 1930, he married Lola Elizabeth Shupe in 1932, with whom he had two more children. Deming was known for his dedication to his work and his passion for teaching. He continued to lecture and consult until his death on December 20, 1993, at the age of 93.