The concept of quality is envisioned in different ways by different people because people process information and conceptualize situations in a variety of ways. While some may define quality as conformance to specifications, others may consider fitness for use by customer more appropriate. Shades of definitions abound. Much of this variation in mental conceptualization and processing, results from the relative dominance of one of the two hemispheres in the brain.
Roger Sperry, a Nobel Prize winner, found that the left half of the brain tends to function by processing information in an analytical, rational, logical, sequential way. The right half of the brain tends to function by recognizing relationships, integrating and synthesizing information, and arriving at intuitive insights. In other words, the left side of your brain deals with a problem or situation by collecting data, making analyses, and using a rational thinking process to reach a logical conclusion. The right side of your brain approaches the same problem or situation by making intuitive leaps to answers based on insight and perceptions.
The quality field, by its very nature, covers a broad range of concepts, tools, and techniques. Some of these concepts, tools and techniques are clearly in the left brain arena, such as using statistical tools, and organizing plans to ensure the quality of projects and processes. Others are in the right brain arena, such as using relationship diagrams to solve problems, forming teams to analyze systems, and applying intuitive concepts, such as six sigma.
The difference between left brain and right brain thinking can be seen in how a quality programme is designed. Left brain thinkers tend to value a cradle-to-grave quality programme. They systematically design a programme that comes complete with design control, verification of manufacturing, statistical controls, and an audit programme. Right brain thinkers often value the input of the employees working in the process. They design a quality programme by bringing these employees together to identify existing problems, brainstorm solutions, and implement corrective actions. Left brain programme designers bring great skill in developing carefully controlled processes, while right brain programme designers get employees excited about quality, and motivated to make improvements. Although the approaches are different, both are important.
By effectively harnessing both sides of the brain’s thinking processes, you can shift from one thinking process to another as the situation warrants. For example, right brain thinking can be used to develop a broad strategic quality plan. Left brain thinking can be used to analyze a problem. When a problem has been analyzed right brain processes can be called on to develop possible solutions. Left brain concepts can help plan how to implement a solution into the work system, while right brain thinking can sell the solution to the organization.
Truly creative professionals will find ways to incorporate the talents of both hemispheres to maximize their personal effectiveness.
Regardless of whether you believe the brain dominance theory, you must realize that professional growth is not just a process of learning new tools and techniques. You can become worn out if your growth is defined only by acquiring knowledge of more tools and techniques. Growth should also come through self awareness of your thinking processes and through understanding how your comfortable thinking patterns influence your views and your ability to learn and perform.
CREDITS: Suresh Lulla, Founder & Mentor, Qimpro Consultants Pvt. Ltd.