View From 40,000 Feet

I just left London and am writing this article somewhere over the North Atlantic at 40,000 feet. I am using my Microsoft word processing program on my Apple Duo Powerbook. ICM has taught many professionals from Apple, Microsoft and other PC and software producers. And I'm Thinking - - - Why CMII?

So, here I am . . typing on my Apple computer . . on this Boeing 767 . . with Rolls Royce engines . . Why did they choose ICM for CMII certification?

I'll tell you why. Its because CM in ICM's world is round! Huh?

I know what you are thinking . . . that the altitude is getting to me. Let me explain.

Flat Versus Round

As I fly over the Atlantic, I'm reminded of those historic discussions as to whether the world is flat or round. There are still CM professionals out there who view the world of CM as being flat. Their approach to CM is limited in scope and does not offer their business any real competitive advantage.

On the other hand, over 1,300 CMII grads know that an effective and efficient process must be global in nature. They know that CM needs to encompass all documentation needed for achieving consistent conformance and continuous improvement. They know that CM is a cross-functional, value-added, closed-loop, core business process.

The Bottom Line Is Where It Counts

Traditional CM is history and interesting lessons have been learned from it but no CM professional should stake their career on it.

I See CMII Everywhere I Go

I have just completed three weeks of on-site classes at Rolls Royce Aerospace. They make the engines for the plane that I am on. I've also taught a large number of professionals from Boeing, the people who made this 767.

I have taught people from companies that make passenger seats, safety slides, navigation equipment and landing gears. Their equipment is on this plane.

To get to my home airport, I will take a connecting flight on a "Short" or a "Dash 8" commuter plane. Short Brothers and deHavilland have both sent professionals through our courses.

Finally, there's a good chance that I'll ride home in a Ford while setting in a seat made by Johnson Controls. These and other automotive companies have sent professionals through our courses.

Maybe There Is An Exception . . .

When I finally get home, after 14 hours of traveling, I'm going to sit back and have a Miller Light.

A brewery with CMII grads? Not yet . . . not unless we count CMII grad Bryan Schwab who continues to win prizes with his home brewed beer.

Institute of Configuration Management Scottsdale, AZ 85261-5656 Tel: (480) 998-8600 Fax: (480) 998-8923 Email: info@icmhq.com