Where the Real Magic of Quality Happens – Lessons from WCQI 2026
I had the opportunity to attend ASQ’s World Conference on Quality and Improvement in Orlando. This was a fantastic conference celebrating 80 years of ASQ and quality all while experiencing where the magic happens. Sessions covered a wide range of subjects, but several themes stood out to me.
Stronger Together
80 years of quality has produced substantial knowledge and experience. Conference sessions are a powerful way to share this knowledge, but the real magic happens in the relationships we build. I was surprised how many people I reconnected with from previous conferences and was fortunate to meet even more fantastic people. One fun surprise was meeting someone that recognized me from my newsletter! These connections led to shared ideas to strengthen ASQ sections, potential speaking opportunities, hiking and travel recommendations, and meaningful mentoring discussions. It was about learning from one another and building a strong, connected community.
Human Centered
Multiple sessions focused on AI and technology, however, there was a consistent emphasis on these being tools. Powerful tools for sure, but they don’t replace the human experience. Speakers explained how organizational culture and human connection are essential to optimize improvement. AI is great at analyzing data and recognizing patterns. Lasting progress requires more though. We need to listen and engage with people to understand the emotions and motivations involved. Only with that understanding and collaboration can we design processes that the users embrace and ensure improvements that are not only implemented, but sustained.
Wellness
In her keynote, Christine Cashen, demonstrated through audience participation how strongly our internal dialogue shapes our reality. When we tell ourselves “We’re a terrible person”, our strength ebbs. When we tell ourselves “We are a wonderful person”, we stand strong. The messages may originate from others, but when we internalize them, they impact us and our performance. The conference wellness challenge reinforced this by highlighting the importance or physical activity, social connection and mindset. It reminds me of the classic example to put on your oxygen mask first before helping others. If we don’t take care of ourselves, there will be nothing left to give to others. Our contributions depend on our self-care.
Quality Culture
Quality culture was a recurring theme throughout the conference. Maybe I noticed it more because it appears in the ISO9001 draft, but I think it’s more than that. There’s a growing awareness that a culture of engagement, alignment, learning and connection is critical for maximizing effectiveness. During the closing panel, corporate leaders spoke about quality as a strategic function. It’s an important shift in focus and a recognition that we must embrace the values of quality and involve the people to realize the full benefits.
The Common Thread
Did you notice a theme through all of this? It’s the human focus and connections. That’s what makes us strong and that’s where the magic happens!
