Presented by Bruce & Joyce Steakley
Abstract: This presentation introduces several problem-solving methods used in aerospace and applies them to quality winemaking. We focus on problem solving using cause and effect analysis and rational processes. Our experience comes from working decades in aerospace designing and building complex and high-quality ground, air, and space systems. In our retirement, we grow grapes and make wine, but still encounter issues that need to be resolved. In this talk, we use problem scenarios from the world of grape growing and winemaking to illustrate how these methods are applied. The talk includes a discussion of how to think about quality and how it might fit your situation. An effective cause and effect analysis should begin with a detailed description that captures the effect. We think of the universe of possible causes residing within six categories: Processes, Materials, Equipment, People, Measurements, and Environments. We use fishbone techniques to organize and visualize possible threads of contributing factors. We describe the Best of the Best and Worst of the Worst (“BowWow”) method which will help narrow a vast array of problem suspects. This will guide your focus and make the best use of your time. When you have identified options to improve product quality, Kepner-Tregoe analysis is a rational process that can be designed to guide your decisions in accordance with what you value as important. Whether you are making wine or engineering a complex new product, use these tools to determine a problem’s root cause and corrective action.
Bio: Bruce Steakley graduated from UC Berkeley in 1979 with a BS in Engineering-Physics. He and his wife Joyce are now home grape growers, winemakers, and authors living in Cupertino, California. They have recently written a book titled ‘A Quest for Quality Wine, Every Time: A Guide to Root Cause Analysis’. The book was recently published by Springer Nature.
The intent of the book is to teach new (young and young at heart) students about using root cause analysis tools that they have mastered from working decades in aerospace. They use the basics of grape growing and winemaking to present real world problem scenarios and how to apply root cause analysis and decision-making methods. They believe these systematic rational methods provide useful practical skills. These tools provide important problem solving and decision-making capabilities for future leaders in industrial engineering, viticulture, enology, and industry at large.
