October 6, 2008

"PRIDE"-ISEM PHASE 1 - SYSTEM STUDY & EVALUATION (SPECIAL)

This is Part X in our series on the "PRIDE" Methodologies for IRM. In this edition we provide a description of the concepts and philosophies used in the "PRIDE"-Information Systems Engineering Methodology (ISEM).

The full text for this section can be obtained by clicking: HERE.

NEXT UP: Phase 2 of the "PRIDE"-Information Systems Engineering Methodology (ISEM), System Design.

If you would like to discuss this with me in more depth, please do not hesitate to send me an e-mail.

Keep the faith!

OUR BRYCE'S LAW OF THE WEEK therefore is...

"If an information requirement is stated incorrectly at the beginning, then everything that follows will be incorrect."

"MORPHING INTO THE REAL WORLD"

Friends, be sure to check out our book entitled, "MORPHING INTO THE REAL WORLD - A Handbook for Entering the Work Force" which is a survival guide for young people as they transition into adult life.

Bonnie Wooding, the President of the Toronto Chapter of the International Association of Administrative Professionals (IAAP) said, "Many of our members are just starting their careers and I will be recommending that they read this book, especially Chapter 3, Professional Development - a primer for business skills and filled with basic common sense advice that is simple, easy to follow and extraordinarily practical; and Chapter 5, Do’s and Don’ts of the Workplace, an excellent resource for those questions you are too embarrassed to ask for fear of looking foolish."

The Miami Hurricane recently reviewed it (10/22/2007) and said,

"the abundance of information the book provides is a good start for anyone about to take the first step into the real world. Though the concept of adulthood may seem intimidating, it's comforting to know that someone has at least written a guidebook for it."

Reviewer Bill Petrey praised it by saying, "Every young person entering the workplace for the first time should be given a copy of this book."

The book includes chapters to describe how a young person should organize themselves, how to adapt to the corporate culture, develop their career, and improve themselves professionally and socially. Basically, its 208 pages of good sound advice to jump start the young person into the work force. Corporate Human Resource departments will also find this book useful for setting new hires on the right track in their career. It not only reinforces the many formal rules as contained in corporate policy manuals, but also includes the subtle unwritten rules we must all observe while working with others. The book lists for $25 and can be ordered online through MBA or your local book store. Complementing the book is a one day seminar of the same name which can be purchased separately for $4,000.00 (U.S.) plus instructor travel expenses. For more information on both the book and the seminar, visit our corporate web site at: http://www.phmainstreet.com/mba/morph.htm
ISBN: 978-0-9786182-5-4

MY "PET PEEVE OF THE WEEK" IS "THE ATTRIBUTES OF A TOUGH TASK MASTER"

I think the expression "Task Master" has become passé in today's workplace but I'm not too sure what has replaced it, perhaps "Micromanager" or simply a "Pain in the Ass." Basically, it's referring to someone charged with performing a task through to completion and moves heaven and earth to get the job done. I've met a lot of tough Task Masters over the years, and I have found there are essentially two types: the megalomaniac, and the "poor slob" who has had an assignment dropped in his lap and realizes failure is not an option.

There are several attributes which the two types share: they are disciplined, results oriented, resourceful, and know how to communicate effectively. In terms of discipline they tend to be very organized and methodical in how an assignment is to be performed and will not tolerate any variance. They are resourceful in terms of not allowing obstacles to interfere with an assignment and know how to overcome any hiccup along the way. In fact, they show great creativity in this regards. They also understand the importance of communicating with all parties involved with the assignment. But the last attribute, which is perhaps the most critical, is they are both very determined to succeed, one because he has to and one because he simply wants to.

The key difference between the two types lies in their interpersonal relations with their subordinates. The megalomaniac relishes the job as it represents power and control. He demands blind obedience and is often fond of saying, "If I say jump, you say how high?" In other words, he sees workers more as machines as opposed to human beings, objects which he can manage by pushbutton, an approach which is loathed by his workers. Consequently, he doesn't command loyalty or respect and desertions are commonplace.

The poor slob, on the other hand, stresses the importance of the assignment to his people, he runs interference to expedite problems for them, and is concerned with his subordinate's welfare. This is the antithesis of the megalomaniac who maintains an almost adversarial relationship with his workers. His approach to management is simply to dominate through intimidation, thereby bullying people to complete the task. In contrast, the poor slob seeks cooperation through teamwork and builds a network of interdependencies whereby the members realize they will either sink or swim together.

To use a football metaphor, the Task Master is the quarterback on the field calling his own plays. Depending on what type he is though, the players will either respect and earnestly work for him or they'll go out of their way to allow him to fumble away the game. In the end, it all comes down to interpersonal relations.

Such is my Pet Peeve of the Week.

Note: All trademarks both marked and unmarked belong to their respective companies.

"BRYCE'S PET PEEVE OF THE WEEK"

Folks, a couple of years ago I started to include my "Pet Peeve of the Week" in these "Management Visions" podcasts. They have become so popular that I now syndicate them through the Internet and they are available for republication in other media. To this end, I have created a separate web page for my writings which you can find at phmainstreet.com Look for the section, "The Bryce is Right!" Hope you enjoy them.

Also, if you happen to be in the Tampa Bay area of Florida, be sure to stop by and check out our new Palm Harbor Business OASIS, a new business venue offering local business people a place to meet, work, network, and relax. Why pay a lot for leasing office space when you can become a member of the OASIS for as little as $100/month? For more information, visit our web site at: http://www.phboasis.com/

AND FINALLY...

I received the following e-mail regarding my Pet Peeve on "Lawyers":

A B.D. in Scottsdale, Arizona wrote...

"Well said, sir. At one point, I was in life insurance sales. Visiting the elderly and attempting to sell them on why a Medicare supplement from my company was better than what they already had, I left an appointment one morning with the realization that I was halfway between a lawyer and a car salesman. I left the company soon after. It's a shame that the ambulance chasers and divorce lawyers do so much damage to the profession. Attorneys can and do serve the public good every day. Perhaps the "good" lawyers should file a class action suit against any lawyers engaging in Green and Fazio-esque shenanigans."

I received the following e-mails from my "Pet Peeve" entitled, "Going it Alone?":

A K.N. in Sunny. California wrote...

"My husband and I would go on completely different paths on this one and we have. He doesn't have the stomach for risk so he's gone with the large company. Dependable, you're pretty sure they'll be there tomorrow. Where as I am the risk taking free spirit. Of course my husband's dependability affords me this luxury. But the two have given us a good life...one we're both happy with and success we may not otherwise have enjoyed."

A C.N. in Dallas, Texas wrote...

"I have the best of both worlds. I work at a small company who is a branch of a huge company."

Again, thanks for your comments. For these and other comments, please visit my "Bryce is Right!" web site.

Keep those cards and letters coming.

MBA is an international management consulting firm specializing in Information Resource Management. We offer training, consulting, and writing services in the areas of Enterprise Engineering, Systems Engineering, Data Base Engineering, Project Management, Methodologies and Repositories. For information, call us at 727/786-4567.

Our corporate web page is at:

http://phmainstreet.com/mba/

Management Visions is a presentation of M. Bryce & Associates, a division of M&JB Investment Company of Palm Harbor, Florida, USA. The program is produced on a weekly basis and updated on Sundays. It is available in versions for RealPlayer, Microsoft Media Player, and MP3 suitable for Podcasting. See our web site for details. You'll find our broadcast listed in several Podcast and Internet Search engines, as well as Apples' iTunes.

If you have any questions or would like to be placed on our e-mailing list to receive notification of future broadcasts, please e-mail it to timb001@phmainstreet.com

For a copy of past broadcasts, please contact me directly.

We accept MP3 files with your voice for possible inclusion in the broadcast.

There is no charge for adding a link to "Management Visions" on your web page, for details and HTML code, see the "Management Visions" web site.

Management Visions accepts advertising. For rates, please contact yours truly directly.

Copyright © 2008 by M&JB Investment Company of Palm Harbor, Florida, USA. All rights reserved. "PRIDE" is the registered trademark of M&JB Investment Company.

This is Tim Bryce reporting.

Since 1971: "Software for the finest computer - the Mind."

END

September 29, 2008

"PRIDE"-ISEM INTRODUCTION - METHODOLOGY (SPECIAL)

This is Part IX in our series on the "PRIDE" Methodologies for IRM. In this edition we provide a description of the concepts and philosophies used in the "PRIDE"-Information Systems Engineering Methodology (ISEM).

The full text for this section can be obtained by clicking: HERE.

NEXT UP: Phase 1 of the "PRIDE"-Information Systems Engineering Methodology (ISEM), System Study & Evaluation.

If you would like to discuss this with me in more depth, please do not hesitate to send me an e-mail.

Keep the faith!

OUR BRYCE'S LAW OF THE WEEK therefore is...

"The project network is defined by the standard system structure, not by a sequential waterfall approach."

"MORPHING INTO THE REAL WORLD"

Friends, be sure to check out our book entitled, "MORPHING INTO THE REAL WORLD - A Handbook for Entering the Work Force" which is a survival guide for young people as they transition into adult life.

Bonnie Wooding, the President of the Toronto Chapter of the International Association of Administrative Professionals (IAAP) said, "Many of our members are just starting their careers and I will be recommending that they read this book, especially Chapter 3, Professional Development - a primer for business skills and filled with basic common sense advice that is simple, easy to follow and extraordinarily practical; and Chapter 5, Do’s and Don’ts of the Workplace, an excellent resource for those questions you are too embarrassed to ask for fear of looking foolish."

The Miami Hurricane recently reviewed it (10/22/2007) and said,

"the abundance of information the book provides is a good start for anyone about to take the first step into the real world. Though the concept of adulthood may seem intimidating, it's comforting to know that someone has at least written a guidebook for it."

Reviewer Bill Petrey praised it by saying, "Every young person entering the workplace for the first time should be given a copy of this book."

The book includes chapters to describe how a young person should organize themselves, how to adapt to the corporate culture, develop their career, and improve themselves professionally and socially. Basically, its 208 pages of good sound advice to jump start the young person into the work force. Corporate Human Resource departments will also find this book useful for setting new hires on the right track in their career. It not only reinforces the many formal rules as contained in corporate policy manuals, but also includes the subtle unwritten rules we must all observe while working with others. The book lists for $25 and can be ordered online through MBA or your local book store. Complementing the book is a one day seminar of the same name which can be purchased separately for $4,000.00 (U.S.) plus instructor travel expenses. For more information on both the book and the seminar, visit our corporate web site at: http://www.phmainstreet.com/mba/morph.htm
ISBN: 978-0-9786182-5-4

MY "PET PEEVE OF THE WEEK" IS "GOING IT ALONE?"

As we enter the workforce we inevitably have to make a difficult decision; do we go to work for big business or do we take a chance on a smaller company, perhaps even start our own? Whereas one seems to offer safety and security, the other appears to be more risky.

When you compare the two, the big business seems to be the better choice; e.g., better salary, benefits, the stability of more financial resources, etc. The smaller company appears to be a much more riskier proposition by comparison, and it is to a certain extent. Going into a small business, or even starting one, is definitely not for the feint of heart, and requires an entrepreneurial spirit. Although the risk is high, so are the rewards, assuming the company is successful. In contrast, the big business company cannot compete against the small company in this regards, unless of course you make it to the upper echelons of management.

Because of its size with lots of people kicking and scratching their way to the top, the big business tends to be more political than the smaller company. Although the latter is certainly not devoid of gamesmanship, there is more of an inclination to cooperate on a team basis due to the risks involved. There also tends to be more freedom for employees to express their creativity and take part in corporate decisions.

Although the sense of risk is more apparent in a small company, the big business company is certainly not devoid of risk, particularly in these times of outsourcing, downsizing, and tightening of belts. Whereas the risk in a small business is upfront in the early stages, the risk in big business tends to be more long term in nature, particularly as it applies to job security and retirement. Even if you make it to retirement, there is still the danger of benefits being curtailed. In contrast, the person in the smaller business tends to be more in control of retirement benefits.

Bottom-line, the decision to go big business or small is a matter of risk. Those who believe they are safe in the comfort of the arms of big business are kidding themselves. Yes, the risk in small business is more apparent, but there is equally as much risk in big business, it's just a little more transparent. Because the small company is more cognizant of risk, there is more of an inclination to be more disciplined and cooperative in your work habits. But as any small business owner can tell you, plan on starving when you first get started as the benefits tend to be long term in nature.

So, which is the right path for you to follow, big or small? It ultimately depends on your personality; whereas you see more Type A and B personalities in small businesses (who exhibit entrepreneurial spirit), there are typically more Type C and D personalities found in Big Business (those that are less likely to take a risk). Because of this, I find it amusing when small businesses want to emulate big businesses, and big businesses yearn for the spirit and mobility of the small company. But you know what? You cannot have it both ways.

Such is my Pet Peeve of the Week.

Note: All trademarks both marked and unmarked belong to their respective companies.

"BRYCE'S PET PEEVE OF THE WEEK"

Folks, a couple of years ago I started to include my "Pet Peeve of the Week" in these "Management Visions" podcasts. They have become so popular that I now syndicate them through the Internet and they are available for republication in other media. To this end, I have created a separate web page for my writings which you can find at phmainstreet.com Look for the section, "The Bryce is Right!" Hope you enjoy them.

Also, if you happen to be in the Tampa Bay area of Florida, be sure to stop by and check out our new Palm Harbor Business OASIS, a new business venue offering local business people a place to meet, work, network, and relax. Why pay a lot for leasing office space when you can become a member of the OASIS for as little as $100/month? For more information, visit our web site at: http://www.phboasis.com/

AND FINALLY...

I received the following e-mail regarding my Pet Peeve on "Making Matters Worse":

An L.T. in Fall River, Massachusetts wrote...

"In times of despair I often have to remind myself never to say 'what else could go wrong'. No sooner will those words exit my mouth that something else indeed will go wrong."

An R.M. in Illinois wrote...

"When it rains it pours, that is usually the case. Thank you for the interesting read."

I received the following e-mails from my "Pet Peeve" entitled, "Death of the Business Letter":

A J.L. in Scottsdale, Arizona wrote...

"I couldn’t agree more. I find it amazing that just because we’re typing e-mails instead of letters, our sense of how to write an accurate English sentence is diminished. I’ve encountered grown adults who seem to have easily adopted this sloppy format as well. What I find most astonishing though are the web sites with typos and bad sentence structure."

A B.D. in Arizona wrote...

"Hear hear! It's truly astounding the amount of feeble spelling and grammar you come across in business today. I have reservations about the leadership abilities of anyone who either failed 8th grade English or is too lazy to be bothered with writing like an intelligent adult. Bravo, sir."

Again, thanks for your comments. For these and other comments, please visit my "Bryce is Right!" web site.

Keep those cards and letters coming.

MBA is an international management consulting firm specializing in Information Resource Management. We offer training, consulting, and writing services in the areas of Enterprise Engineering, Systems Engineering, Data Base Engineering, Project Management, Methodologies and Repositories. For information, call us at 727/786-4567.

Our corporate web page is at:

http://phmainstreet.com/mba/

Management Visions is a presentation of M. Bryce & Associates, a division of M&JB Investment Company of Palm Harbor, Florida, USA. The program is produced on a weekly basis and updated on Sundays. It is available in versions for RealPlayer, Microsoft Media Player, and MP3 suitable for Podcasting. See our web site for details. You'll find our broadcast listed in several Podcast and Internet Search engines, as well as Apples' iTunes.

If you have any questions or would like to be placed on our e-mailing list to receive notification of future broadcasts, please e-mail it to timb001@phmainstreet.com

For a copy of past broadcasts, please contact me directly.

We accept MP3 files with your voice for possible inclusion in the broadcast.

There is no charge for adding a link to "Management Visions" on your web page, for details and HTML code, see the "Management Visions" web site.

Management Visions accepts advertising. For rates, please contact yours truly directly.

Copyright © 2008 by M&JB Investment Company of Palm Harbor, Florida, USA. All rights reserved. "PRIDE" is the registered trademark of M&JB Investment Company.

This is Tim Bryce reporting.

Since 1971: "Software for the finest computer - the Mind."

END

September 22, 2008

"PRIDE"-ISEM INTRODUCTION - CONCEPTS (SPECIAL)

This is Part VIII in our series on the "PRIDE" Methodologies for IRM. In this edition we provide a description of the concepts and philosophies used in the "PRIDE"-Information Systems Engineering Methodology (ISEM).

The full text for this section can be obtained by clicking: HERE.

NEXT UP: Introduction to the navigation of the "PRIDE"-Information Systems Engineering Methodology (ISEM).

If you would like to discuss this with me in more depth, please do not hesitate to send me an e-mail.

Keep the faith!

OUR BRYCE'S LAW OF THE WEEK therefore is...

"An information system is a product that can be engineered and manufactured like any other product."

"MORPHING INTO THE REAL WORLD"

Friends, be sure to check out our book entitled, "MORPHING INTO THE REAL WORLD - A Handbook for Entering the Work Force" which is a survival guide for young people as they transition into adult life.

Bonnie Wooding, the President of the Toronto Chapter of the International Association of Administrative Professionals (IAAP) said, "Many of our members are just starting their careers and I will be recommending that they read this book, especially Chapter 3, Professional Development - a primer for business skills and filled with basic common sense advice that is simple, easy to follow and extraordinarily practical; and Chapter 5, Do’s and Don’ts of the Workplace, an excellent resource for those questions you are too embarrassed to ask for fear of looking foolish."

The Miami Hurricane recently reviewed it (10/22/2007) and said,

"the abundance of information the book provides is a good start for anyone about to take the first step into the real world. Though the concept of adulthood may seem intimidating, it's comforting to know that someone has at least written a guidebook for it."

Reviewer Bill Petrey praised it by saying, "Every young person entering the workplace for the first time should be given a copy of this book."

The book includes chapters to describe how a young person should organize themselves, how to adapt to the corporate culture, develop their career, and improve themselves professionally and socially. Basically, its 208 pages of good sound advice to jump start the young person into the work force. Corporate Human Resource departments will also find this book useful for setting new hires on the right track in their career. It not only reinforces the many formal rules as contained in corporate policy manuals, but also includes the subtle unwritten rules we must all observe while working with others. The book lists for $25 and can be ordered online through MBA or your local book store. Complementing the book is a one day seminar of the same name which can be purchased separately for $4,000.00 (U.S.) plus instructor travel expenses. For more information on both the book and the seminar, visit our corporate web site at: http://www.phmainstreet.com/mba/morph.htm
ISBN: 978-0-9786182-5-4

MY "PET PEEVE OF THE WEEK" IS "DEATH OF THE BUSINESS LETTER"

I've noticed I don't get much mail anymore at the office. Of course, I still get bills and junk mail, but aside from this, little else. I can only surmise that only a handful of people know how to write a business letter anymore. Most of the true correspondence I get nowadays is by e-mail and telephone (both of which have their share of junk).

When you do get a business letter today, it seems to be poorly written in terms of style, layout, and grammar. I know we have made a lot of progress in word processing technology over the years, but it sure seems people don't know how to run such things as spelling and grammar checkers. I think the real culprit here though is text messaging which has basically annihilated any sense of syntax and word formation.

Now, instead of this...

Dear Sir,

It was a pleasure talking with you today. Concerning your order, I have made the correction and credited your account accordingly. Thank you for bringing this to my attention. If I can be of any further assistance, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Sincerely,

We now have this...

Dude,
don't tabooma. cy. all is kewl. cm.
stys
plo

Actually, I don't blame Gen X and Y for these bad writing habits as they are only innocent victims of technology. Instead, I blame my generation for not teaching them how to communicate properly in a corporate setting.

I first learned to write business letters in my high school typing class and have written numerous letters over the years. But the kids today don't take typing anymore and are definitely not familiar with writing for business. Text messaging may be fine for quick and dirty interpersonal communications, but it also leads to some horrible writing habits. I don't care what your age is, a well written business letter can work miracles in terms of sales and service. Too bad it is slowly disappearing from the corporate landscape.

NOTE: for text messaging syntax, see NetLingo

Such is my Pet Peeve of the Week.

Note: All trademarks both marked and unmarked belong to their respective companies.

"BRYCE'S PET PEEVE OF THE WEEK"

Folks, a couple of years ago I started to include my "Pet Peeve of the Week" in these "Management Visions" podcasts. They have become so popular that I now syndicate them through the Internet and they are available for republication in other media. To this end, I have created a separate web page for my writings which you can find at phmainstreet.com Look for the section, "The Bryce is Right!" Hope you enjoy them.

Also, if you happen to be in the Tampa Bay area of Florida, be sure to stop by and check out our new Palm Harbor Business OASIS, a new business venue offering local business people a place to meet, work, network, and relax. Why pay a lot for leasing office space when you can become a member of the OASIS for as little as $100/month? For more information, visit our web site at: http://www.phboasis.com/

AND FINALLY...

I received the following e-mail regarding my Pet Peeve on "Getting Burned":

A C.S. in Palm Harbor, Florida wrote...

"Reminds me of something I heard back when I studied martial arts. 'The difference between a red belt and a black belt is that a black belt knows when to just walk away.' Good article... been burned a few times myself and grow each time."

I received the following e-mails from my "Pet Peeve" entitled, "360 Degrees":

An E.C. in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida wrote...

"You have hit the nail on the head with this piece. One of the main failings of our educational system is that it doesn't sufficiently teach cooperative learning or critical/creative thinking."

Again, thanks for your comments. For these and other comments, please visit my "Bryce is Right!" web site.

Keep those cards and letters coming.

MBA is an international management consulting firm specializing in Information Resource Management. We offer training, consulting, and writing services in the areas of Enterprise Engineering, Systems Engineering, Data Base Engineering, Project Management, Methodologies and Repositories. For information, call us at 727/786-4567.

Our corporate web page is at:

http://phmainstreet.com/mba/

Management Visions is a presentation of M. Bryce & Associates, a division of M&JB Investment Company of Palm Harbor, Florida, USA. The program is produced on a weekly basis and updated on Sundays. It is available in versions for RealPlayer, Microsoft Media Player, and MP3 suitable for Podcasting. See our web site for details. You'll find our broadcast listed in several Podcast and Internet Search engines, as well as Apples' iTunes.

If you have any questions or would like to be placed on our e-mailing list to receive notification of future broadcasts, please e-mail it to timb001@phmainstreet.com

For a copy of past broadcasts, please contact me directly.

We accept MP3 files with your voice for possible inclusion in the broadcast.

There is no charge for adding a link to "Management Visions" on your web page, for details and HTML code, see the "Management Visions" web site.

Management Visions accepts advertising. For rates, please contact yours truly directly.

Copyright © 2008 by M&JB Investment Company of Palm Harbor, Florida, USA. All rights reserved. "PRIDE" is the registered trademark of M&JB Investment Company.

This is Tim Bryce reporting.

Since 1971: "Software for the finest computer - the Mind."

END

September 15, 2008

"PRIDE"-EEM PHASE 5 - EEM EVALUATION (SPECIAL)

This is Part VII in our series on the "PRIDE" Methodologies for IRM. In this edition we provide a description of Phase 5 of the "PRIDE"-Enterprise Engineering Methodology (EEM).

The full text for this section can be obtained by clicking: HERE.

NEXT UP: Introduction to the "PRIDE"-Information Systems Engineering Methodology (ISEM).

If you would like to discuss this with me in more depth, please do not hesitate to send me an e-mail.

Keep the faith!

OUR BRYCE'S LAW OF THE WEEK therefore is...

"A project will only be accomplished if the individuals performing the work want to do it."

"MORPHING INTO THE REAL WORLD"

Friends, be sure to check out our book entitled, "MORPHING INTO THE REAL WORLD - A Handbook for Entering the Work Force" which is a survival guide for young people as they transition into adult life.

Bonnie Wooding, the President of the Toronto Chapter of the International Association of Administrative Professionals (IAAP) said, "Many of our members are just starting their careers and I will be recommending that they read this book, especially Chapter 3, Professional Development - a primer for business skills and filled with basic common sense advice that is simple, easy to follow and extraordinarily practical; and Chapter 5, Do’s and Don’ts of the Workplace, an excellent resource for those questions you are too embarrassed to ask for fear of looking foolish."

The Miami Hurricane recently reviewed it (10/22/2007) and said,

"the abundance of information the book provides is a good start for anyone about to take the first step into the real world. Though the concept of adulthood may seem intimidating, it's comforting to know that someone has at least written a guidebook for it."

Reviewer Bill Petrey praised it by saying, "Every young person entering the workplace for the first time should be given a copy of this book."

The book includes chapters to describe how a young person should organize themselves, how to adapt to the corporate culture, develop their career, and improve themselves professionally and socially. Basically, its 208 pages of good sound advice to jump start the young person into the work force. Corporate Human Resource departments will also find this book useful for setting new hires on the right track in their career. It not only reinforces the many formal rules as contained in corporate policy manuals, but also includes the subtle unwritten rules we must all observe while working with others. The book lists for $25 and can be ordered online through MBA or your local book store. Complementing the book is a one day seminar of the same name which can be purchased separately for $4,000.00 (U.S.) plus instructor travel expenses. For more information on both the book and the seminar, visit our corporate web site at: http://www.phmainstreet.com/mba/morph.htm
ISBN: 978-0-9786182-5-4

MY "PET PEEVE OF THE WEEK" IS "360 DEGREES"

My company has been doing business in Japan since the mid-1970's. We have enjoyed the experience and have marveled at how Japanese businessmen act and think. For example, it is very important for the Japanese to reach a group consensus on major decisions (an inherent part of the concept of Theory Z). By doing so, they solicit the input from all of the workers before making a decision (a bottom-up type of approach). As an American, I found this to be radically different than the western world's top-down micromanagement approach. The Japanese approach may make for a longer sales cycle, but it simplifies implementation (after all, everyone has agreed to the decision).

As the Japanese work through a problem they tend to look at it from every angle or as they refer to it as thinking in "360 degrees." This is a much wider perspective than what you typically find in western companies. Whereas the Japanese tend to think in terms of 360 Degrees, Americans tend to suffer from tunnel-vision, meaning they become overly concerned with a single piece of the puzzle. Maybe this is because the western world is somewhat territorial in nature. We become so obsessed with our piece of the pie we tend to overlook the entire dish.

I think a lot of this has to do with our conditioning. Whereas the Japanese are taught at an early age the importance of teamwork and cooperation, Americans are taught to be individualistic and competitive. No wonder Japanese think of the bigger picture while Americans tend to build and fight over their little fifedoms.

Over the years I have learned that larger and more complex projects require teamwork, communications and cooperation. Maybe it is because of our natural aversion to cooperate, and not to think in terms of 360 degrees, that we have difficulty conquering anything of substance in this country anymore. This may be a major factor why we no longer think big and are content doing small things.

Such is my Pet Peeve of the Week.

Note: All trademarks both marked and unmarked belong to their respective companies.

"BRYCE'S PET PEEVE OF THE WEEK"

Folks, a couple of years ago I started to include my "Pet Peeve of the Week" in these "Management Visions" podcasts. They have become so popular that I now syndicate them through the Internet and they are available for republication in other media. To this end, I have created a separate web page for my writings which you can find at phmainstreet.com Look for the section, "The Bryce is Right!" Hope you enjoy them.

Also, if you happen to be in the Tampa Bay area of Florida, be sure to stop by and check out our new Palm Harbor Business OASIS, a new business venue offering local business people a place to meet, work, network, and relax. Why pay a lot for leasing office space when you can become a member of the OASIS for as little as $100/month? For more information, visit our web site at: http://www.phboasis.com/

AND FINALLY...

I received the following e-mail regarding my Pet Peeve on "Print Journalism":

A J.D. in Tampa, Florida wrote...

"The political slant in the mainstream media has, in my opinion, led to the decline in both print and broadcast media. The range is from left-to-FAR left. Folks are not getting balanced news and they know it, so they seek alternative news sources. The rise in popularity of FoxNews is testimony to that. The slants are obvious. The media's romance over one presidential candidate is seen as the other is referred to simply as "Senator", and not as "Presidential Hopeful" as they had done repeatedly with their favored ticket. Too bad they are so smug as to miss the fact that they're shooting themselves in the foot. It would be interesting to see how a more balanced paper would fare in today's market."

An R.B. in Bedford, Massachusetts wrote...

"I no longer get my news from either TV or print because they are slanted and poor mediums for me to feel I get what I want. I have found the Internet and RSS feeds have totally replaced them as my source of news. I think this will be a growing trend as I look at my sons' generation and they only get news from the Internet."

A B.D. in Scottsdale, Arizona wrote...

"I completely agree. Haven't picked up a paper in a long time, so I'm not as familiar with the newer advertising regimens, but I find it somewhat sad that a source with such a noble history would go down like that. TV news, on the other hand, well, it's pretty much useless. Pretty people telling you they don't know all the details, but here's the scene so you can get all worked up about things while they get you "the latest." Or the local, evening news, which spends an average of fifteen seconds on any story, saving some story about a sex scandal for the end, to which they devote a solid 45 seconds. It's all fluff."

I received the following e-mails from my "Pet Peeve" entitled, "The SFB Quotient":

A C.S. in Florida wrote...

"As I was reading your first question I was thinking to myself..."why isn't there a good pick?""

A J.T. in Clearwater, Florida wrote...

"Ok I liked this one. The thing that amazes me is that each week you are right on!"

Again, thanks for your comments. For these and other comments, please visit my "Bryce is Right!" web site.

Keep those cards and letters coming.

MBA is an international management consulting firm specializing in Information Resource Management. We offer training, consulting, and writing services in the areas of Enterprise Engineering, Systems Engineering, Data Base Engineering, Project Management, Methodologies and Repositories. For information, call us at 727/786-4567.

Our corporate web page is at:

http://phmainstreet.com/mba/

Management Visions is a presentation of M. Bryce & Associates, a division of M&JB Investment Company of Palm Harbor, Florida, USA. The program is produced on a weekly basis and updated on Sundays. It is available in versions for RealPlayer, Microsoft Media Player, and MP3 suitable for Podcasting. See our web site for details. You'll find our broadcast listed in several Podcast and Internet Search engines, as well as Apples' iTunes.

If you have any questions or would like to be placed on our e-mailing list to receive notification of future broadcasts, please e-mail it to timb001@phmainstreet.com

For a copy of past broadcasts, please contact me directly.

We accept MP3 files with your voice for possible inclusion in the broadcast.

There is no charge for adding a link to "Management Visions" on your web page, for details and HTML code, see the "Management Visions" web site.

Management Visions accepts advertising. For rates, please contact yours truly directly.

Copyright © 2008 by M&JB Investment Company of Palm Harbor, Florida, USA. All rights reserved. "PRIDE" is the registered trademark of M&JB Investment Company.

This is Tim Bryce reporting.

Since 1971: "Software for the finest computer - the Mind."

END

September 8, 2008

"PRIDE"-EEM PHASE 4 - ENTERPRISE INFO STRATEGY (SPECIAL)

This is Part VI in our series on the "PRIDE" Methodologies for IRM. In this edition we provide a description of Phase 4 of the "PRIDE"-Enterprise Engineering Methodology (EEM).

The full text for this section can be obtained by clicking: HERE

NEXT UP: PHASE 5 - EEM EVALUATION

If you would like to discuss this with me in more depth, please do not hesitate to send me an e-mail.

Keep the faith!

OUR BRYCE'S LAW OF THE WEEK therefore is...

"There is nothing more unproductive than to build something efficiently that should not have been built at all."

"MORPHING INTO THE REAL WORLD"

Friends, be sure to check out our book entitled, "MORPHING INTO THE REAL WORLD - A Handbook for Entering the Work Force" which is a survival guide for young people as they transition into adult life.

Bonnie Wooding, the President of the Toronto Chapter of the International Association of Administrative Professionals (IAAP) said, "Many of our members are just starting their careers and I will be recommending that they read this book, especially Chapter 3, Professional Development - a primer for business skills and filled with basic common sense advice that is simple, easy to follow and extraordinarily practical; and Chapter 5, Do’s and Don’ts of the Workplace, an excellent resource for those questions you are too embarrassed to ask for fear of looking foolish."

The Miami Hurricane recently reviewed it (10/22/2007) and said,

"the abundance of information the book provides is a good start for anyone about to take the first step into the real world. Though the concept of adulthood may seem intimidating, it's comforting to know that someone has at least written a guidebook for it."

Reviewer Bill Petrey praised it by saying, "Every young person entering the workplace for the first time should be given a copy of this book."

The book includes chapters to describe how a young person should organize themselves, how to adapt to the corporate culture, develop their career, and improve themselves professionally and socially. Basically, its 208 pages of good sound advice to jump start the young person into the work force. Corporate Human Resource departments will also find this book useful for setting new hires on the right track in their career. It not only reinforces the many formal rules as contained in corporate policy manuals, but also includes the subtle unwritten rules we must all observe while working with others. The book lists for $25 and can be ordered online through MBA or your local book store. Complementing the book is a one day seminar of the same name which can be purchased separately for $4,000.00 (U.S.) plus instructor travel expenses. For more information on both the book and the seminar, visit our corporate web site at: http://www.phmainstreet.com/mba/morph.htm
ISBN: 978-0-9786182-5-4

MY "PET PEEVE OF THE WEEK" IS "THE SFB QUOTIENT"

Anyone who has ever taken an IQ test knows you have to endure a battery of multiple choice questions aimed at measuring your intelligence. Some are simple and common sense, others are a little tricky. This got me thinking whether we could devise a similar program aimed at determining if a person suffers from SFB (Shit for Brains) which you may recall me commenting on not long ago. As a result, I have devised the following set of questions:

1. During a business meeting you disagree with a coworker, and your boss sides with the coworker; What do you do?

A. Send a blind text message to everyone else in the department that your boss and the coworker are lovers (regardless what sex they are).
B. Change the coworker's time sheet to show he/she is goofing off more than yourself.
C. Using Adobe Photoshop, you manufacture compromising photos of your boss and e-mail it anonymously throughout the company.

2. Your boss asks you to work overtime in order to complete a key project; What do you do?

A. File a grievance with HR.
B. Change the office clocks (including those on the server) so everyone else has to stay late with you.
C. Manufacture an excuse, preferably the death of a loved one.

3. You have been asked to return your neighbor's chain saw after having it for six months; What do you do?

A. Before you return it, you hack away on a tree bordering your properties, particularly your neighbor's side.
B. Anonymously report him to the homeowners association that his lawn is a mess.
C. Pretend you didn't get the message and keep it for six more months.

4. It's 4:55pm on Friday, a customer calls desperately in need of one of your products; What do you do?

A. Send his message to voice mail and answer him on Monday.
B. Send him the wrong product (or an insufficient quantity of the right product).
C. Send a text message to him that you are on the golf course and wish him a good weekend.

5. The office temperature satisfies everyone in the office but you; What do you do?

A. Adjust the thermostat to suit your needs.
B. Open the windows.
C. While the boss is away, issue an e-mail memo that only you can adjust the thermostat.

6. While in the midst of a critical project assignment, your boss calls for another boring meeting; What do you do?

A. Briefly attend the meeting, but then excuse yourself leaving behind a notepad, pen and coffee cup indicating you will return (you don't).
B. You record the meeting with your cell phone, and e-mail it anonymously to your boss' boss.
C. You have someone call your cell phone every few minutes so that it disrupts the meeting and the boss asks you to leave.

7. You're traveling on company business and spend a tidy sum at a local Exotic Dance club; what do you do?

A. Report it on your expense account as "entertainment" of a client.
B. Doctor your receipts with a graphics package to make them look legitimate.
C. Tell your boss you were conducting some market research.

8. A shipping company is trying to make an urgent delivery to one of your rivals at work who is currently off-site; What do you do?

A. Refuse to sign and accept the package.
B. Forward the shipment to your Scranton office.
C. Forge his name on the delivery and hide the package in the building.

9. It is rush-hour and you want to get home in the most expeditious means possible; What do you do?

A. While driving, call a loved one on your cell phone and ask what's for dinner.
B. At a stop light, you roll down your window and ask your neighbor for directions, but since he can't speak English you flip him the bird.
C. Using your GPS, you plot a course that takes you through Las Vegas.

10. The new technology you've installed in the company is not living up to your promise of improving productivity and is actually a financial drain instead; What do you do?

A. Blame the end-users for incompetence in the use of the technology.
B. Blame the vendors for inferior products.
C. Blame the programmers for lousy software.

Now, for your score. Actually, it's rather simple. If you answered any one of these questions, give yourself a score of 100 as you are a bona fide SFB.

Such is my Pet Peeve of the Week.

Note: All trademarks both marked and unmarked belong to their respective companies.

"BRYCE'S PET PEEVE OF THE WEEK"

Folks, a couple of years ago I started to include my "Pet Peeve of the Week" in these "Management Visions" podcasts. They have become so popular that I now syndicate them through the Internet and they are available for republication in other media. To this end, I have created a separate web page for my writings which you can find at phmainstreet.com Look for the section, "The Bryce is Right!" Hope you enjoy them.

Also, if you happen to be in the Tampa Bay area of Florida, be sure to stop by and check out our new Palm Harbor Business OASIS, a new business venue offering local business people a place to meet, work, network, and relax. Why pay a lot for leasing office space when you can become a member of the OASIS for as little as $100/month? For more information, visit our web site at: http://www.phboasis.com/

AND FINALLY...

I received the following e-mail regarding my Pet Peeve on "The Olympics":

A D.T. of Raleigh, North Caolina wrote...

"I would think that a former military base would prove an ideal permanent location for the Olympics.

1. There is symbolism in converting a mechanism of war into a facility focused on celebrating sport and human athleticism.
2. The facilities are already set up, logistically, for moving/recieving material - air/lift and rail capability, and being secured.
3. They are self-sufficient towns with their own power stations, medical facilities, dormitories, shopping, recreation, etc.
4. Vast tracts of land are usually on-hand for new development.
5. Many are simply going into disrepair."

I received the following e-mails from my "Pet Peeve" entitled, "Making your problems mine":

A P.O. in Greeley, Colorado wrote...

"I just read your piece on your dumpster problem and responsibility. One course you might think about pursuing is getting the name of the owner of the trash and then contacting local law enforcement, either the sheriff's office or police depending on where the dumpster is. The person dumping the trash is guilty of "Theft of Services" and most law enforcement officers will happily site the offender for this. That way instead of having to deal with the offender yourself you can let the guys or gals who get paid to do it handle the difficult situation and the dumping (at least from that person) will end."

Again, thanks for your comments. For these and other comments, please visit my "Bryce is Right!" web site.

Keep those cards and letters coming.

MBA is an international management consulting firm specializing in Information Resource Management. We offer training, consulting, and writing services in the areas of Enterprise Engineering, Systems Engineering, Data Base Engineering, Project Management, Methodologies and Repositories. For information, call us at 727/786-4567.

Our corporate web page is at:

http://phmainstreet.com/mba/

Management Visions is a presentation of M. Bryce & Associates, a division of M&JB Investment Company of Palm Harbor, Florida, USA. The program is produced on a weekly basis and updated on Sundays. It is available in versions for RealPlayer, Microsoft Media Player, and MP3 suitable for Podcasting. See our web site for details. You'll find our broadcast listed in several Podcast and Internet Search engines, as well as Apples' iTunes.

If you have any questions or would like to be placed on our e-mailing list to receive notification of future broadcasts, please e-mail it to timb001@phmainstreet.com

For a copy of past broadcasts, please contact me directly.

We accept MP3 files with your voice for possible inclusion in the broadcast.

There is no charge for adding a link to "Management Visions" on your web page, for details and HTML code, see the "Management Visions" web site.

Management Visions accepts advertising. For rates, please contact yours truly directly.

Copyright © 2008 by M&JB Investment Company of Palm Harbor, Florida, USA. All rights reserved. "PRIDE" is the registered trademark of M&JB Investment Company.

This is Tim Bryce reporting.

Since 1971: "Software for the finest computer - the Mind."

END