Abstract

People working together as a harmonious system can achieve wonderful things. The human system model developed in this article—called the profound knowledge of human systems—builds on W. Edwards Deming’s system of profound knowledge and can enhance this harmony. The article facilitates a shared appreciation of quality, excellence and systems that make sense to people engaged in any purposeful activity. This is encapsulated in a simple mantra: “To achieve a quality outcome, we must practice excellence, and we must design, install and maintain systems fit for that purpose.