What are some of Deming's 7 deadly diseases for organizations?

• A. Excessive medical cost and job hopping
• B. Too much focus on employee satisfaction
• C. Long-term strategic planning
• D. Global market expansion

Answer: (A)

The seven deadly diseases, as identified by W. Edwards Deming, highlight specific systemic issues that can prevent organizations from thriving. One of the key diseases is excessive medical costs combined with job hopping. This reflects a broader issue in organizations that prioritize short-term benefits, leading to high employee turnover and associated costs that ultimately affect organizational stability and performance.

Excessive medical costs typically stem from inefficiencies and a lack of focus on preventive measures, while job hopping can disrupt the continuity and flow of work within an organization. This disease underlines the importance of investing in employee development and creating a stable workforce, which are crucial for improving quality and performance in an organization.

In contrast, the other options focus on different aspects that are not classified as Deming’s deadly diseases. A fixation on employee satisfaction, while relevant for a positive workplace, does not capture the broader systemic issues that hinder organizational effectiveness. Long-term strategic planning is generally seen as beneficial, not detrimental, to an organization’s success. Similarly, global market expansion is a strategic goal that can lead to growth rather than being considered a disease. Thus, the emphasis on excessive medical costs and job hopping accurately reflects Deming’s perspective on systemic organizational issues.