CB>Deming management theory would say that testing 
CB>increases defects - 
 RM> This caught my eye... How can testing increase defects?
 RM> I can see where testing will discover more defects; I can
 RM> even see where, possibly, intervention in the process 
 RM> MIGHT affect product; but... I can't see how the act of
 RM> testing, which is an essential part of quality control,
 RM> can increase defects?
Actually, testing to improve quality is not a Deming management process - 
that is part of MBO or MBR (management by objective or management by 
results). That kind of testing is used when numerical goals to judge and 
direct performance.
 
However, Deming states that this leads to the following:
Short-term thinking
Misguided focus
Fudging the figures
Greater fear
Blindness to customer concerns
 
Currently, this is how the vast majority of schools are managed, (yes, even 
private schools).  "However, this method of management pays little, if any, 
attention to processes and systems: the real capabilities of the organization 
as a whole."  THE TEAM HANDBOOK FOR EDUCATORS, by Joiner 
 
I know where you are coming from, your statement was exactly mine when I 
first began studying Deming's management style about 12 years ago.  I have 
been trying to apply his theories to my classroom with, I think, moderate 
success. 
 
However, recently, I came across this book that relates Deming principles to 
education and has examples, worksheets, etc. all approved by Deming before he 
passed away. 
 
Have you read anything about Deming?
--- Maximus 2.02
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