Heard Quote by W. Edwards Deming
“We know what we told him, but we don't know what he heard.”
About This Quote
Communication gaps arise when the sender’s intent and the receiver’s interpretation diverge, leading to misunderstandings.
In simple terms: What we say isn’t always what others hear.
Key Takeaway
Message meaning can be lost in transmission.
Themes
communication
interpretation
misunderstanding
leadership
Mood
analytical
cautious
Type
business
educational
When to use this quote
- team meetings
- customer support
- teaching
- cross‑cultural negotiations
Key Concepts
systems thinking
feedback loops
Practical Applications
- clarify messages, ask for feedback
- use multiple channels
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you verify that your message was understood?
- What role does context play in shaping interpretation?
A Different Perspective
Sometimes ambiguity is intentional for flexibility.
