Jezebel Black
How can one manage a business when vendors play games with delivery dates and other factors? For example, if a vendor says delivery is on Friday at 5 p.m. but delivers on Wednesday, it can cause significant problems if arrangements have been made based on the original delivery window.
In the early 1970s, while working in Cummins Engine Company's Fleetguard Filter Division, I learned two systems that should be adopted as a national policy: the WAG, taking a Wild Ass Guess and hoping for the best possible outcome, and the SWAG, a Scientific Wild Ass Guess using assorted and various computer tools, which may give a better outcome than WAG.
Knowing one can beat a promise when one makes the commitment is counterproductive. Rather than make a false promise, be honest. It makes planning so much easier. When you don't have a clue, speak up and say so.
The transportation sector is an example of an industry that may be over-promising and under-delivering on the concept of putting autonomous vehicles on the nation's open highways. With today's infrastructure, it's as if a dingy is setting sail on a rough sea; it is a dangerous idea.
While I support autonomous vehicles of all kinds it makes more sense to start by perfecting autonomous vehicles in controlled environments like warehouses and secure ports. Using locations with restricted public access rather than open highways where there are more risks involved is a better alternative. Considering the general public's safety, especially young drivers, is essential.
