Copies Quote by W. Edwards Deming
“I think that people here expect miracles. American management thinks that they can just copy from Japan - but they don't know what to copy!”
About This Quote
Source Book: Out of the Crisis, W. Edwards Deming, 1982
The speaker warns that blindly copying foreign models, like Japan’s, fails without understanding underlying principles.
In simple terms: Copying without grasping core ideas leads to failure.
Key Takeaway
Learn underlying principles before adopting practices.
Themes
management
innovation
culture
learning
Mood
skeptical
analytical
Type
business
strategic
When to use this quote
- corporate training
- international expansion
- process redesign
- strategic planning
Key Concepts
systems thinking
continuous improvement
cultural adaptation
Questions to Reflect On
- What core principles should be adapted?
- How can we tailor foreign practices to local needs?
A Different Perspective
Copying may overlook unique local contexts and resources.
