Tutor profile: Charlie B.

What is the difference between quality management and business excellence practices?

The key difference between quality management (QM) and business excellence (BE) practices is perspective. Quality management has come to be seen as the responsibility of the quality department or the engineering department. Quality is something that is checked by inspection. Business excellence is everyone's responsibility and no department is excused from embracing a mindset of continuous improvement and customer satisfaction.

What are some ways to create a first draft?

The blank page can be terrifying. If you are a visual person, consider creating a mindmap with the idea for your paper in the central bubble. Use links to identify supporting points or to ensure that you meet the assignment's requirements. If you find it easier to talk than to type, use the voice recording capability on your phone to talk through the elements in your paper. Sometimes talking things out is the best way to gain clarity.

Do you feel that the title of "Manager" automatically conveys the attributes of being a leader?

No. The perspective of a leader and the perspective of a manager is different. Managers handle resource allocation, tactical thinking, and adherence to an overall plan. Leaders should be thinking long-term and creatively. This thinking-outside-of-the-box mentality is the opposite of a manager who has limited resources and a fixed plan.