Business, industry and non-governmental organization leaders addressed quality opportunities and crises in the 21st century in a dialogue, hosted by ASQ (American Society for Quality) and the Baldrige National Quality Program at the National Institute of Standards and Technology in Gaithersburg, Md. A full report of the June 2009 event is now available at http://www.asq.org/knowledge-center/future-of-quality-dialogue.html.
More than 20 participants, from organizations such as Best Buy, Google, Hewlett-Packard, IBM and Pfizer, identified priority areas where quality and performance improvement can achieve the greatest effect and foster positive change.
“The impact of quality and organizational performance excellence on the future of businesses, industry, healthcare, and education is a critical area for discussion and action,” said Paul Borawski, ASQ executive director and chief strategic officer. “The outcomes of the Future of Quality Dialogue will help ASQ shape strategic direction and priorities for our members now and in the years ahead.”
The four priority areas include:
• Emphasize strategic relevance and contribution to long-term sustainability;
• Connect with innovation;
• Increase public awareness and brand value; and
• Utilize information technology and engagement tools.
ASQ and the Baldrige National Quality Program will offer opportunities to participate in the ongoing dialogue. Online discussion opportunities and a list of questions professionals can use to host their own sessions will be available by visiting ASQ’s Knowledge Center at http://www.asq.og/2008-futures-study/index.html.