Knowledge Based Management (KBM)

This book addresses the reason some companies have succeeded in quality improvement while others have seen little, if any, return on investment from their efforts.

Many managers are frustrated or sometimes intimidated by the complexity of modern-day processes. This text provides a common-sense, easy-to-follow approach to gaining process knowledge and shows how a proper knowledge base can provide greater return on investment and expanded profit margins.

Our experience has indicated that the major barrier for success in most organizations is the lack of knowledge about processes, products, and people. Without an adequate knowledge base, it is difficult to communicate and to make good decisions. Without knowledge, we develop a culture of diversity--diverse opinions! The book is not an alternative approach to Deming, Juran, and Ishikawa. Rather it is an extension of a common underlying theme present in their work--knowledge.

The authors present a philosophy and strategy for unleashing the power of quality improvement through increased process knowledge. They give managers and executives something concrete they can use to drive the quality culture in their organizations.

Contents Include:

• Introduction to Knowledge Based Management
• Motivating the Need for Quality Improvement and Knowledge
• Philosophies for Getting Started
• Implementation Strategies
• Questions Managers Need to Ask and Answer
• Basic Tools and Techniques to Obtain Knowledge
• Advanced Tools and Techniques to Obtain Knowledge
• KBM: A Modern Quality Improvement Paradigm
• Six Sigma for Manufacturing/Non-Manufacturing Processes

Authors: Stephen R. Schmidt, Mark J. Kiemele, and Ronald J. Berdine

Format: (1996); hardcover; 258 pp
Item #:  1-880156-05-9
Price:    $40.00