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Excellence Quote by Phil Crosby

“We must define quality as conformance to specifications if we are to manage it.” quote by Phil Crosby
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“We must define quality as conformance to specifications if we are to manage it.”

Phil Crosby

About This Quote

Source Book: Quality Is Free, Philip B. Crosby, 1979

Quality must be defined by meeting explicit specifications to be effectively managed.

In simple terms: Define quality by specs to manage it.

Key Takeaway

Set clear specs, measure compliance.

Themes

quality management specifications control

Mood

analytical pragmatic

Type

business instructional

When to use this quote

  • manufacturing
  • software development
  • project management
  • service delivery

Key Concepts

Total Quality Management process control

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you balance strict specs with creative flexibility?
  • What happens when specs are unclear?
A Different Perspective

Specs may be too rigid, stifling innovation.

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