Dynamic Quality

At the opposite pole of the quality spectrum is dynamic quality. Dynamic quality is the leading edge of change, a vague idea of betterness constantly seeking to discover new "quality." In terms of the wrench analogy, dynamic quality is the force moving the wrench forward to the next ratchet.

Must Find The Right Mix

Static and dynamic quality are symbolic, yet constantly at odds by their natures. Dynamic quality needs the static quality as a jumping-off point, a place from which it may safely extend into the future. Dynamic quality is continually evolving, and in seeking the new, necessarily threatens the old static quality. If the static quality is successful in stifling the dynamic, no evolution or growth occurs and the organization will not evolve to meet its new challenges. If static quality altogether kills dynamic quality, static quality will eventually kill itself. Every organization must find the right mix of static quality and dynamic quality.


Change Faster And Document Better

The same dynamic-static spectrum could be defined as having "change faster" at one end and "document better" at the other end.

The most effective organization is one that can do both, and do both effectively.

The secret is (1) to define and document in ways which can best accommodate change, and (2) assure the as-changed is also clear, concise and valid.

Communicate both promptly and precisely. We call it CMII. fewer components, modules and/or materials.

Perceived Risk - Flexibility

Is flexibility enhanced or compromised? Two authors derive answers from Robert Pirsig's, "Lila," (1991), wherein the Metaphysics Of Quality are defined in static and dynamic terms.

Static Versus Dynamic Quality

Quality exists across a spectrum, much like a light, stretching from static at one pole to dynamic at the other. Organizations that prefer static quality act differently than those who prefer dynamic quality, and vice versa. The organizational culture determines which pole exerts the greatest influence. Both kinds of quality are in every organization.

Static Quality

Static quality is formally represented by an organizations rules and regulations. It is the established, conservative part of the organization. Static quality is the mooring that maintains the organization's position in a dynamic environment. Without some degree of static quality, the organization will slip into chaos and inefficiency, and be swept away by the current of events.

Static quality is comparable to a socket wrench ratcheting forward. Static quality prevents the wrench from sliding backwards, holding its position before ratcheting up to the next notch. Obvious Benefits

Faster development. Reuse of proven designs and processes. (Less than 20% is actually new).

Reduce unit costs. Simplify. Produce the same end-items with




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