Estimated read time: 6 min read
Table of Contents
List of Characters
| Name | Role |
|---|---|
| W. Edwards Deming | Protagonist, Management Expert |
| Various Managers | Antagonists, Representatives of traditional management methods |
| Employees | Supporting Characters, Workers in the organizations |
Role Identification
In "The Deming Management Method" by Mary Walton, the main character is W. Edwards Deming, a renowned management expert and the protagonist of the book. Deming is accompanied by various managers who represent the antagonistic force, as they adhere to traditional management methods. The employees in the organizations serve as supporting characters, playing a vital role in the implementation of Deming's management principles.
Character Descriptions
W. Edwards Deming
W. Edwards Deming is a highly respected management expert known for his groundbreaking ideas and principles that revolutionized the field of management. He is described as a wise and experienced individual who possesses immense knowledge in organizational management. Deming is portrayed as a charismatic leader, capable of inspiring and motivating others to embrace change.
Various Managers
The various managers featured in the book are depicted as representatives of traditional management methods. They are described as resistant to change, clinging to outdated practices and hierarchical structures. These managers are portrayed as skeptical of Deming's ideas and reluctant to adopt his management principles. Some are shown to be authoritarian and focused solely on short-term results, disregarding the long-term benefits of Deming's approach.
Employees
The employees in the organizations portrayed in the book are depicted as hardworking individuals who are often frustrated by the inefficiencies and lack of communication within their workplaces. They are shown to be eager for change and improvement, seeking a more collaborative and empowering work environment. The employees play a significant role in the implementation of Deming's management principles, as they are the ones directly affected by the changes.
Character Traits
W. Edwards Deming
- Knowledgeable: Deming possesses a wealth of knowledge and expertise in the field of management.
- Charismatic: He has the ability to inspire and motivate others to embrace change.
- Patient: Deming shows patience in dealing with resistance and skepticism from others.
- Innovative: He introduces new and groundbreaking ideas that challenge traditional management methods.
Various Managers
- Resistant to Change: The managers are resistant to adopting Deming's management principles.
- Authoritarian: Some managers exhibit authoritarian traits, focusing on their own authority rather than collaboration.
- Short-sighted: They prioritize short-term results over long-term improvements.
- Skeptical: The managers are skeptical of Deming's ideas and their potential benefits.
Employees
- Hardworking: The employees are dedicated and committed to their work.
- Frustrated: They feel frustrated by the inefficiencies and lack of communication within their workplaces.
- Eager for Change: The employees are eager for a more collaborative and empowering work environment.
- Supportive: They support and embrace Deming's management principles.
Character Background
W. Edwards Deming
W. Edwards Deming was born in 1900 in Sioux City, Iowa. He initially trained as a mathematician and physicist before shifting his focus to statistics and quality management. Deming gained recognition for his work in Japan after World War II, where he played a crucial role in the country's economic recovery. His teachings and principles had a profound impact on Japanese industry and later influenced management practices worldwide.
Various Managers
The various managers in the book come from different backgrounds and industries. They have varying levels of experience and education in management. Many of them have risen through the ranks within their organizations and are accustomed to traditional management methods.
Employees
The employees in the organizations come from diverse backgrounds, ranging from entry-level positions to middle management roles. They have different levels of experience and expertise in their respective fields.
Character Arcs
W. Edwards Deming
Throughout the book, Deming's character arc is focused on spreading his management principles and overcoming resistance from traditional managers. He starts by introducing his ideas to organizations, facing skepticism and push-back. However, as the story progresses, Deming's principles gain traction and start to yield positive results. His character arc culminates in the successful implementation of his methods in multiple organizations, resulting in improved productivity and employee satisfaction.
Various Managers
The managers' character arcs revolve around their resistance to change and their eventual acceptance or rejection of Deming's principles. Initially, they are skeptical and reluctant to adopt new management methods. However, as they witness the positive impact of Deming's principles on the organizations, some managers undergo a transformation and embrace the changes. Others, however, remain steadfast in their traditional ways, leading to conflicts and tensions within the organizations.
Employees
The employees' character arcs highlight their desire for a better work environment and their journey towards empowerment. Initially frustrated by the inefficiencies in their workplaces, they become catalysts for change as they embrace Deming's principles and actively participate in the improvement processes. Their character arcs demonstrate their growth and increased job satisfaction as they experience the positive outcomes of the new management methods.
Relationships
W. Edwards Deming and Managers
The relationship between Deming and the managers is characterized by conflict and resistance. The managers view Deming as a threat to their established authority and traditional management practices. However, as Deming presents his ideas and shows the positive impact they can have on organizations, some managers begin to develop a newfound respect for him. The relationship evolves as Deming seeks to persuade the managers to adopt his principles and overcome their resistance.
W. Edwards Deming and Employees
The relationship between Deming and the employees is one of mutual respect and collaboration. Deming recognizes the importance of the employees' contribution to the success of his principles and actively involves them in the implementation process. He values their feedback and empowers them to take ownership of their work. The employees, in turn, appreciate Deming's guidance and support, as they witness the positive changes in their work environment.
Managers and Employees
The relationship between the managers and employees is initially strained due to the hierarchical and authoritarian management style. The managers often fail to communicate effectively with the employees, leading to frustrations and inefficiencies. However, as the managers start to embrace Deming's principles, the relationship improves. The managers become more open to collaboration and empowerment, leading to a more positive and productive working environment for the employees.
