Deming Blessings Fall on Ford

CEO Alan Mulally says: “My entire business approach is based upon Deming’s Continual Quality Improvement forever foundation…. It is really gaining momentum here at Ford again.” Ford, of course, is the only US automaker that avoided bankruptcy and a government bailout and is now prospering around the globe.

It is not difficult to imagine that Dr. Deming would be delighted with the turn-around and success at Ford.

Mulally adds, “We are absolutely committed to building great products, a stronger business, and contributing to a better world. Our product lineup is stronger than ever, and our leadership in quality, fuel efficiency, safety, smart design and value is resonating with consumers.”

In the l980s Dr. Deming taught a troubled Ford that management actions or inactions were responsible for 90 percent of problems in making better cars.

As things began to improve, in 1986, in a letter to Autoweek Magazine, then Ford CEO Donald Petersen wrote, "We are moving toward building a quality culture at Ford and the many changes that have been taking place here have their roots directly in Dr. Deming's teachings."

Ford got better and better, but Deming’s ideas faded after Petersen left. Then Mulally arrived in 2006 and got Ford back on track to preserve the American auto industry.

A Ford documentary illustrates the revolution in Ford’s operations, its focus on customers and continually improving technology and products in an environment where everyone seems to be creative and having a wonderful time. Joy in work for all is a Deming key to improvement.

Speaking of The Deming Library, Mulally says, “I love the Deming tapes.”