Chemistry Reference
In-Depth Information
CHAPTER 6
Business Considerations
6.1 INTRODUCTION
Whether one is working in the chemical industry or collaborating with
members of the chemical industry, there are factors beyond pure science that
come in to play and are factors in whether projects live or die and how they
are done. It is helpful to have some knowledge of these considerations. Even
if you do not use the various techniques, it is worthwhile to understand them
because decision-makers in your company are likely using them.
In any organization, there is a desire to improve quality, whether it is the
quality of a product or the quality of processes within the company. Lack of
quality costs money and puts companies out of business. Quality is dynamic
so there is always room for improvement. Top companies have a focus on
quality. There are several techniques used to improve quality; one common
one is Six Sigma.
All projects within a company are not successful but all projects require
time, resources, and money. The earlier “bad” projects are abandoned, the
less investment in bad projects and the greater is the ability to put resources
on other projects with a greater chance for success. There are different ways
to choose which projects to back; often it is merely a judgment by someone in
upper management. There are more refined techniques to improve this process
and Stage-Gate™ is a formalized method to judge projects.
Most people need to work collaboratively. Projects are usually too large
for a single person to accomplish. Communication and trust are important
tools to help collaboration. The way a company is organized can facilitate
or detract from collaboration. There are different types of organization and
some understanding of these is warranted. When several people work on
the same project, it is important for each to understand their role in project
completion. This can be difficult, especially regarding the overall timing of
Search WWH ::
Custom Search