So, those intending to champion a new system that will cost money and change accustomed practices must present a convincing case to management and the corporate bean counters, as well as the people operating the new system and everyone using the information it generates. Scope magnifies the challenge. Compare this with an enterprisewide system operating in multiple areas of multiple plants and generating an information cross-flow bridging boundaries of geography, personal responsibilities and objectives. A quality system of this scope will have a network of stakeholders stretching from machine operators and supervisors to quality directors, cost analysts, the corporate information technology staff and those toiling in the executive suite. In business, as on the battlefield, success derives from correct strategies and tactics.
Strategies call for understanding what motivates adversaries and allies.
Tactics employ this knowledge to create winning plans and build a supportive consensus. The following example shows how to document a case for management approval and peer support. The example used in this article is an advanced enterprisewide statistical process control and automated data-collection system. Select one or a combination of applications that will appeal strongly to your audiences. You're likely to do best at detailing, costing, explaining, defending and implementing processes you are familiar with.