A zero-defects mentality (also known as Zero Error Syndrome) exists when a command-and-control structure does not tolerate mistakes. This atmosphere is now widely acknowledged to be ineffective in both military and corporate life.1
The results of a zero-defects mentality can include careerism, reduced motivation and stifled innovation. Soldiers or employees will feel neither empowered by their successes nor accountable for their failures.
Eliminating a zero-defects mentality is one of the primary goals of lean manufacturing, specifically through the application of Kaizen and Andon in the Toyota Production System.
References
References
- Kissel, Robert. "The Hidden Cost of Down Sizing: A Zero Defects and Risk Avoidance Mentality" (PDF). Archived (PDF) from the original on October 18, 2019.
Further reading
Further reading
- Thornton, R. (2000). Cultural barriers to organisational unlearning: The US army, the ‘zero‐defects’ culture and operations in the post‐cold war world. Small Wars & Insurgencies, 11(3), 139–159."
External links
External links