Time To Stop Hating Your Job

By Craig Calvin

There are many jobs out there that would probably never be classified as a great job. There are many people who are unhappy with their job, but feel that they have no choice but to remain in that job, due to financial reasons. If you are in this situation, it is time to change your attitude, because only you can help make your job a great job.

If you hate your job, there are probably things that annoy you, and cause stress, and it will not be easy to change your mindset, but if you can, it will be worth it. Take the time to look for the good things in your job, rather than focusing on all the negatives. Figure out which parts of your job you like best, or which you like at all. If you truly can't come up with anything that you enjoy about your job, you really need to consider a career switch.

In these tough times, many people are faced with the reality of having to take jobs that they hate simply to get by. Even people who are required to take jobs that are okay, but not ideal, will find themselves extra tense when it comes to talking about the workplace. Focus on figuring out what's good about your job, and then reminding yourself of those things. If nothing else, remember that you should be thankful for the job that you have because so many people don't have them right now.

At the end of the day, the reason why almost everyone has the job that they do, is the salary. You obviously need to support yourself, and possibly your whole family, so you are willing to remain in a job you hate because you need the money. Obviously, in the world we live in, money is critical in order to make sure you have a roof over your head, and food to eat, but at the same time, working for a job you hate can have a significant negative impact on your life as well. If you hate your job, and there is no hope of you finding any part of that job you enjoy, then you really must dedicate yourself to finding a new job, for your own good.

Due to the recent economic crisis, there are many people out there who hate their job, but cannot leave because their are limited opportunities for employment elsewhere. If you hate your job, there are probably things that annoy you, and cause stress, and it will not be easy to change your mindset, but if you can, it will be worth it. Take the time to look for the good things in your job, rather than focusing on all the negatives. You may never love your job, but if you can learn to tolerate it by focusing on the aspects you enjoy, you will reduce your stress, which will benefit all aspects of your life. If you cannot find anything positive, and are looking for information on how to apply for a new job, or online training to help you get the job you want, check out Six Sigma Online at http://www.sixsigmaonline.org. - 32538

About the Author:

There are various steps to the six sigma training program. From yellow belt to six sigma black belt you will find all you need to understand by going to www.sixsigmaonline.org.

Innovation Is The Key To Six Sigma Success

By Craig Calvin

If you have worked in one place for a long time, the chances are pretty good that you have fallen into certain routines, and perform certain tasks the same way every time. Whether that routine is the best way to perform the task or not, most individuals do not give it any thought, they just perform a task the way it has always been done. There are problems, though, when this mindset starts to effect how you make decisions about new processes or find solutions to problems with the existing processes.

If your business is looking to introduce a new product or service, or correct an issue with an existing product or service, every possible solution should be considered. If your employees cannot think outside of the box, and come up with new ideas, then it is very likely that the best solution will not be realized. One way to help your employees think outside of the box is to use a Six Sigma project to identify the ideal solution. If you are new to Six Sigma, bringing in consultants to assist in a Six Sigma project is one way to bring new ideas to your business. If you don't need consultants, or would prefer not to use them, then the Six Sigma project will provide the tools and guidance to your employees to help them think outside of the box.

Many people are intimidated when companies bring in third party problem solvers, but remember that the fresh perspective is helpful to the organization, and that their solutions will actually benefit you and the company in the end. You shouldn't fear change because it is going to happen anyway. You should learn what the solution is, how it affects you, and learn to accept it because it's for the betterment of your workplace.

Many people are opposed to Six Sigma, because of it's association with large business, and the fact that its popularity grew so quickly throughout the business world. These people typically think that Six Sigma is just a fad, and like all other fads it will quickly die out. What these people don't understand is that the reason Six Sigma grew so quickly is because it can assist any size business, and help determine the optimal solution to any size problem. If you are not familiar with the Six Sigma process, there are many sites on-line that can offer additional information, and training opportunities to help you realize the benefits that Six Sigma can bring to your business.

It is critical that you think outside of the box when you are looking to provide the best possible solution for your business, no matter what the issue or problem may be. Six Sigma projects are a great way to help your employees think outside the box, and identify the ideal solution to your problem. - 32538

About the Author:

If you are looking to become six sigma black belt then you should log onto www.sixsigmaonline.org. On our site you will be able to find information on all available six sigma programs.

Quality Manual for ISO 13485 2003 Standard

By Mark Kaganov

A quality manual is the top-level document of a quality management system. It is similar to a constitution of a country or a manifesto of a party. This type of document establishes the policy-level position of a government, party or in the case of a quality manual, a company' QMS. There are at least two definitions of what a quality manual for an ISO 13485 quality management system should be:

ISO 10013, Guidelines for Developing Quality Manuals, element 4.2, provides suggestions for creating a quality manual. It defines a quality manual, among other requirements, as a document that should "consist of, or refer to, the documented quality system procedures intended for planning and administration of activities which impact on quality" ISO 13485:2003, element 4.2.2 describes a quality manual as a document containing:

1 - your QMS scope

2 - description of processes that are excluded, including non-applicable elements;

3 - references to the documented procedures;

4 - a description of interaction between the processes of the QMS

5 - an outline of the structure of the documentation used in the quality management system

Typically, companies state the scope of their QMS in the Scope or Introduction sections of their quality manuals, similar to "XYZ Corporation assembles, packages and distributes personal hygiene product packs to hospitals and doctors' offices"

When the scope of the QMS is determined, we can define the processes we need to achieve the results stated in the scope. Also, remember referencing supporting procedures for those processes. The easiest way to do it is to translate the standard from a list of requirements into your organization's commitment to satisfy those requirements. For example: Clause 6.4.a ISO 13485:2003 states: "The organization shall establish documented requirements for health, cleanliness and clothing of personnel ? " our manual will state: "The company has established a documented Clean Environment Procedure to maintain health, cleanliness and clothing requirements for personnel?"

Looking at the paragraph above, you will notice that a reference to a specific procedure satisfies the third requirement for a quality manual. Continuing in a similar way, addressing all applicable elements of the standard and referencing corresponding procedures, we will develop a quality manual satisfying requirements of the standard.

Now we need to choose a method to document interactions between our processes. There are a few ways to do it. One typical method is to utilize Figure 1 in ISO 9001:2000 standard. This figure shows a model of a process-based QMS. In addition to that, referenced documents will show what processes relate to those listed in our quality manual. Some models are available on the Internet. Enter "process interaction matrix" into the search field of your Explorer and you will find your answers.

The only requirement of the element 4.2.2 left is to describe the structure of your documentation. Some businesses I have consulted described their documentation tree as 4- or 5-level structure in the documentation management section of the manual.

Another important function of a quality manual, very often overlooked, is as a marketing tool. Well written and professionally published, a quality manual may become a powerful marketing instrument. It can communicate to your potential customers, suppliers and subcontractors that your company is not only a quality-conscious organization, but that it also knows how to document and communicate its commitment to quality and compliance with regulatory requirements.

I always wonder what companies achieve by stamping their quality manuals in bold capitol red letters "CONFIDENTIAL". As far as I am concerned, a quality manual is a company's resume for quality, and if you hide your resume, there is a very good chance that you will never get a job! All our customers are encouraged to make their quality manuals public! - 32538

About the Author:

Learning from your own mistakes is costly! Check out our ISO 13485 page to learn more about Quality Management systems

What Your Profession Says About You

By Craig Calvin

Everyone has something different that they want to do with their lives. When you take the time to check out all of the great opportunities for careers in the world, the one that you choose will probably say a lot about who you are as a person. For example, someone who loves numbers and math will likely end up in a finance or accounting job, while someone who likes to deal with kids might get a job as a teacher or childcare worker. Even if you have no idea what you want to do with your life, when it comes to choosing a career you can rely heavily on your interests to provide you with some great ideas. Some people are free spirits, and don't want to be tied to a desk. They might seek trade jobs or freelance positions that allow them to move around or be outdoors more so that they don't feel trapped.

It is completely the idea of ascertaining what you enjoy. Right at present may not be the most beneficial time to obtain jobs and vocations, however you are able to still day dream the idea of what you would like to practice. You are able to ready yourself for the best of your abilities for the vocation that you desire, and even if at present Is not the correct time for you to switch jobs, you will be able to at the least be prepared to advance to the vocation that you have forever desired when matters are looking up in the economic system. Whenever you enjoy executing something regularly, deliberate executing it in a vocational scene. Naturally, not every spare-time activity or interests will develop into a tactile and effective vocation, however most could pass into some industry that's corresponding. Lets say you enjoy baking, become a chef or a baker. There genuinely are no boundaries to your selections.

Have you ever questioned how come vocation examines and aptitude examines always inquire about what you do in your spare time while that bears no relevancy to the vocation world? It is since individuals tend to be more adept at occupations while they enjoy them, and ascertaining a position that you enjoy will be a great deal more gratifying and fulfilling than acquiring simply any stale position that you are able to encounter. Never allow yourself to become a product of the 'could have, would have, should have' mental capacity. Whenever you have an aspiration, get out and chase after it. If you do not recognize what that aspiration is, determine what your likes and dislikes are to discover it.

One of the greatest way to discover your future career is to think about what it is in life that you enjoy. What you enjoy can often transform into a career that you will love going to each morning of your adult life. If you keep this advice in the back of your head you are sure to have grave success when looking for that career you can always enjoy.

Six Sigma Online are a prominent internet resource for data on vocations as well as employment. Discover more now at http://www.sixsigmaonline.org. - 32538

About the Author:

If you are thinking of increaing your business skills, think of looking into lean six sigma training. Sixsigmaonline.org provides different levels of training, like green belt six sigma.

Six Sigma Projects- Essential Tools of the Personal Kind

By Craig Calvin

While formal Six Sigma training is critical if you are going to implement Six Sigma in your business, it is not the only important factor in running a successful Six Sigma project. If you are going to run a Six Sigma project, how you communicate, and interact with the employees in your company, whether they are your superiors, equals, or subordinates, can often mean the difference between success and failure.

When you are running a Six Sigma project, it is essential that you are personally invested in the project, and committed to the success of the project no matter what obstacles may stand in your way. One of the keys to a successful Six Sigma project is how well you communicate with the members of your project team, as well as any other employees in your company who are not directly involved in the project.

After you start your Six Sigma project, you should identify other employees, whether they are part of the project team or not, who are obviously committed to the success of the project, to act as change agents for your project. There may be employees in your company that may fear that the changes that are going to be enacted as a result of this project may result in a reduction in the number of employees the company needs, which would lead to their termination. You can use your change agents to talk to these employees, and reassure them that their job are secure, and that the project is good for everyone.

In larger organizations you will likely face much more opposition. This is where patience and the ability to handle stress and pressure come in. Six Sigma Projects are not easy, and they are not quick little fixes. They take a lot of time, a lot of resources, and even though the end result is well worth it, they can prove to be challenging for anyone who gets involved with them.

It takes more then Six Sigma training to make a successful Six Sigma project manager though. When you are running a Six Sigma project, it is essential that you are personally invested in the project, and committed to the success of the project no matter what obstacles may stand in your way. your communication and inter-personal skills are important to the success of your project. - 32538

About the Author:

If you are thinking of bulking up on your business skills, think of looking into six sigma training. Sixsigmaonline.org provides different levels of training, such as green belt six sigma.

Career Advice- Taking Changes In Stride

By Craig Calvin

Change is always a little scary. When it comes to jobs and careers, it can be even scarier because your financial security will depend on the changes that are taking place. Take the time to learn how to deal with change one step at a time and it might be a little more tolerable.

The workplace is constantly changing and growing. Taking on these changes even in the most ideal conditions can prove to be stressful. However, when those changes become negative and include things like layoffs, downsizing, and struggling to keep the company afloat, even the most peaceful person can easily become overwhelmed and stressed out. In these tumultuous times, the last thing that you need is more stress, which is why you need to learn how to take career changes in stride, no matter how big or small they may be. Focus on getting through today, and then worry about tomorrow when it comes.

When you work for a company where your co workers are constantly being terminated or laid off due the the state of the economy, it's difficult not to be fearful of your own job security. However, trust in the reality that you're still employed, and begin devising your options and plans in case the loss of your employment does come. Stress to yourself that the last thing you should to do is panic. Simply try to stay steady, head home and organize your resume and begin accumulating your resources for job hunting, while you continue to carry on with your daily assignments at work. Do not believe that it can't happen to you, simply do not allow yourself to become engulfed with concern because it might.

Numerous people who thought that they were irreplaceable at their place of employment have quickly learned things are much different then they original expected. As a matter of fact, it is commonly not that they can be replaced simply that there is no monetary room for their services the current downward economy. Many are laid off from companies that they thought they'd spend all their working years at, and left to go on with their lives outside of that company. When changing jobs, and finding new employment pertains to the current economic situation, you will most likely not be searching for your dream job. Instead you will be searching for any job that is available and will monetary provide for you and/or your family.

Whether the changes that you're going through are related to company changes or losing your job, you need to be prepared. That is the only way to be able to take things in stride and avoid going into panic mode unnecessarily. Panic does you no good, so you should try to avoid it when you can. Instead, focus on the positive and figure out what you can do to improve your own situation and move on to the next thing in life, whether that's a new job or a new role within your company. Six Sigma Online is a leading online resource for information on careers and employment. Learn more today at http://www.sixsigmaonline.org. - 32538

About the Author:

If you are wanting to boost your career potential, consider six sigma classes. Getting black belt six sigma certification might be just what you are lacking.

Documentation Structure for ISO 9001 QMS

By Mark Kaganov

A guideline for Developing Quality Manuals, ISO 10013 Standard, suggests a documentation structure for ISO 9001 QMS. This model in the standard proposes use of a three-level arrangement. Most companies I worked with utilize four-level structures instead to include records, A typical four-level documentation structure consists of:

Quality Manual - level 1

Procedures - level 2

Instructions - level 3

Records - level 4

Actually, the documentation structure starts from the policy. The policy defines, among others, commitments with what standard a company intends to comply with. If you choose to use this approach, your quality management system will have five levels, similar to the structure below:

Quality Policy - level 1

Quality Manual - level 2

Procedures - level 3

Instructions - level 4

Records - level 5

ISO 9001 - Naming your documents

Companies use various approaches to titling their manuals, procedures, instructions, etc. For example, one of my customers titled their quality manual as "Quality Management System Quality Manual." This very descriptive title does define the document, but does not appear to be efficient.

This tendency to use long titles and document identifiers like "Standard Operating Procedure" most likely comes from regulated industries. Even though I could not find a requirement for such title formats, many companies still use these apparently outdated and ineffective conventions. If a short name sufficiently describes a document, let's use it. I suggest streamlining all elements of management systems. Consider this and do not make your system more complicated than it can be.

Numbering your documents

No standard prescribes to give a part or a document its number. It is an industry standard to give a document or a component its name, number and a revision level. Similar to part titles that we discussed above, document numbering conventions are often also may be optimized and simplified.

A company had some 130 employees. They had two part number formats: one for procedures, another for drawings. Procedures used XX-XXX number format. Drawings were numbered as XXXXXXX-XXX. One of the drawings had a number 000022-003. Assemblers simplified the system and called it "twenty two."

Do these long numbers identify documents? Yes, they do! Are they economical? No, they are not! My customer's system above allowed seven digits and therefore could deal with ten million documents or part numbers. When I worked with this business, they used some 300 documents. If one plans to grow from 200 - 300 documents to a million, one has a long way to go! It is not only how many documents your QMS uses, reading these long strings with five sequential zeros gave everybody headache. Even though this example looks too complicated, "The Worst Part Number" Grand Prize won my other client. They used 14-digit alphanumeric part numbers!

If you are designing and building a Trident-class submarine, a MIG-27 jet fighter or an international space station, you, most likely, will need millions of parts, so a long part number format would be needed and will make sense. Otherwise, save yourself the trouble of reading all those zeros and make your numbering system practical. One of my customers, who won my "The Best Part Number" Grand Prize, numbered their documents as 101, 102, 103, and so on. Short and sweet!

There is another opportunity for improvement of many QMS - part number designation. Many companies relate a document number to a document type. For example, 20-xxxx indicates a procedure, 30-xxxx indicates a drawing, SOP-xxxx indicates a standard operating procedure, etc. My practice with a few QMS that used designation approaches showed that "no designation" systems are more practical. Several QMS that used designation I have worked with have failed. Not long ago, one of my clients mentioned that they ran out of range in their document numbering format. The QMS initially permitted for identifying suppliers through a two-digit identifier within the part number. While the company grew, the number of supplier increased beyond expectations and eventually the company needed more than 99 suppliers. This resulted in the document number format to being able to support new needs.

An alternative approach to part numbering is a "no designation" system, where parts are given sequential unique numbers within a specified format, regardless of their type, material, application or other attributes. After all, isn't the part title the best designator? Seriously, through my entire professional career, I worked only with one company that did not use even document numbers. Their documents were simply identified by titles and a two-digit revision level, like The Prefect Manual 01. - 32538

About the Author:

Learn more about ISO 9001 documentation and order your Quality Management System documentation today!