Deming's Journey to Profound Knowledge - by John Willis (Paperback)

About the Book

In this unique look at the life and work of W. Edwards Deming, bestselling author and technologist John Willis tells the story that hasn't been told: how Deming developed his ideas, and how his masterwork, the System of Profound Knowledge, can be applied today to save us from the cybersecurity crises that is at our feet.

This book looks are stories of Deming's life, from his work with the real-life Rosie the Riveter to a hacker writing US cybersecurity law. Together, this biography tells a story of ingenuity and how one man's thinking changed how we think in the modern world.

Part business history, part biography, part journey into deep business sense, this book is rich in knowledge and chock full of takeaways.

Book Synopsis

"John Willis has looked deep into Dr. Deming's history and teachings and profoundly explains his profound knowledge. Read this book and you will understand like never before the wisdom and sound advice of Dr. Deming." --Jeffrey K. Liker, author of The Toyota Way

"A thoroughly entertaining and educational look at Deming, a man whose insights are fundamental to modern software development. This book includes delightful stories of those around Deming who influenced his work and helped create the foundation for agile and DevOps." --Jim Whitehurst, Senior Advisor at IBM

From the birth of modern industry to winning WWII to Japan's Economic Miracle, W. Edwards Deming helped shape some of the most profound moments in modern history. Deming, an American engineer and statistician, is widely recognized for his contributions to the field of quality management. But his teachings go beyond quality management; they influence not only how we work today, but also how we can continue to succeed in the future.

Part business history, part biography, part journey into deep business sense, bestselling author John Willis captures the full picture of Deming's life and influence. Most importantly, Willis reveals the experiences that led to Deming's greatest discovery: the System of Profound Knowledge, a collection of fundamental truths that show how any system or process can be transformed into something greater.

From the real-life Rosie the Riveter to a hacker writing US cybersecurity law, Deming's ingenuity and system of thinking changed how we think in the modern world. This book shows how we can take that influence and continue to apply it our own future.

"Deming's Journey to Profound Knowledge is a must-read for any student of Lean, Agile, quality, the Toyota Production System, and continuous improvement--or any leader who seeks to create a culture of excellence in their organization."

--Katie Anderson, author of LearningtoLead, LeadingtoLearn

Review Quotes

"John Willis has looked deep into Dr. Deming's history and teachings and profoundly explains his profound knowledge. Read this book and you will understand like never before the wisdom and sound advice of Dr. Deming."--Jeffrey K. Liker, author of The Toyota Way

"A thoroughly entertaining and educational look at Deming, a man whose insights are fundamental to modern software development. This book includes delightful stories of those around Deming who influenced his work and helped create the foundation for agile and DevOps."--Jim Whitehurst, Senior Advisor at IBM

"John beautifully weaves together business and biography to tell a story as intriguing as it is insightful."--William Willis, Techstrong Group

"John has read everything available about Deming and has woven the many threads of Dr. Deming's life into a work of love. The result is a very pleasant fable that will prompt the novice reader to want to know more. While experts will have differing views on Deming's work and contribution to management science, there is no doubt that the IT community can only benefit from learning about Deming's work. John's book is a step in this direction."--Domenico Lepore, author of Deming and Goldratt: The Theory of Constraints and the System of Profound Knowledge

"John Willis has crafted a delightful and insightful book that brings to life the personal story of W. Edwards Deming and how he created a tremendous impact in the world through his theory of profound knowledge. In this book, you'll go beyond the theory and principles to discover the human experience that has led to some of the greatest organizational successes in the past century. Deming's Journey to Profound Knowledge is a must-read for any student of Lean, Agile, quality, the Toyota Production System, and continuous improvement--or any leader who seeks to create a culture of excellence in their organization."--Katie Anderson, author of "Learning to Lead, Leading to Learn"

"Willis manages to achieve a rare feat: provide fresh and unique insights on a famous subject. Whether you care about improving businesses or are simply fascinated by the human condition, this book is worthy of your time."--Damon Edwards, Entrepreneur and Technology Executive

About the Author

John Willis is an author and technologist. John is considered one of the founders of the DevOps movement. He is the coauthor of The DevOps Handbook, Beyond The Phoenix Project, and Investments Unlimited. He lives in Acworth, GA.