Operational technology (OT) is the hardware and software that monitors and controls devices, processes, and infrastructure, and is used in industrial settings. It ties together internal and external data between administrative operations and automation, programmable controls, line sensors and other real time data sources and provides increased accuracy, efficiency and reduction … [Read more...] about An Under the Hood Look at Operational Technology (OT) Security Software
Pragmatic ISMS Implementation Guidelines
SecAware's "ISMS Implementation Guidelines" provide a fairly comprehensive, pragmatic approach to applying ISO/IEC 27001 in practice for information risk and security professionals. The document offers detailed guidance on constructing and implementing an Information Security Management System (ISMS) that aligns with the standard’s formal specifications and an organization’s … [Read more...] about Pragmatic ISMS Implementation Guidelines
Data Breach Notification Laws by State
In the United States, personal information is safeguarded by industry-specific federal laws and varying state legislation, each with its own scope and jurisdiction. Consequently, organizations operating nationwide face significant challenges in ensuring compliance.The page below offers a summary of the requirements under each of the 50 state data breach notification laws as of … [Read more...] about Data Breach Notification Laws by State
FTC Releases 2023 Privacy and Data Security Update
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) released its 2023 Privacy and Data Security Update, which outlines the agency's efforts to protect consumer privacy in response to evolving data usage practices, including artificial intelligence (AI) development and health data misuse. The update emphasizes the FTC's proactive measures to address the indiscriminate collection and … [Read more...] about FTC Releases 2023 Privacy and Data Security Update
Cybersecurity on a budget: Evaluating security and performance of open-source SIEM solutions
Researchers are addressing the increasing need for robust cybersecurity measures among Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in the face of evolving cyber threats. Given the budgetary constraints and limited cybersecurity expertise in SMEs, their study focuses on the potential of open-source Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) systems as cost-effective solutions. The … [Read more...] about Cybersecurity on a budget: Evaluating security and performance of open-source SIEM solutions
CNIL Practice Guide to Security of Personal Data in 2024
The "CNIL Practice Guide: Security of Personal Data 2024" provides comprehensive guidelines for organizations to implement security measures ensuring personal data protection as mandated by the GDPR. The guide targets data protection officers (DPOs), chief information security officers (CISOs), IT professionals, and privacy lawyers, offering practical advice and … [Read more...] about CNIL Practice Guide to Security of Personal Data in 2024
An Analysis of the Market for Endpoint Security
Radicati's "Endpoint Security Market Quadrant 2024" report analyzes the current landscape of the endpoint security market, categorizing vendors into four distinct segments: Top Players, Trail Blazers, Specialists, and Mature Players. The report comprehensively evaluates each vendor based on their functionality and strategic vision. It aims to help readers understand the … [Read more...] about An Analysis of the Market for Endpoint Security
A Guide to Traceability in Manufacturing
Traceability in manufacturing refers to the capability to track and document every aspect of the production process, from raw material procurement to the finished product reaching the consumer. This ability is becoming increasingly crucial in various sectors due to the stringent regulations that require detailed tracking to ensure compliance and quality control. Traceability … [Read more...] about A Guide to Traceability in Manufacturing
An Introduction to AIAG & VDA FMEA Methodology
The AIAG & VDA Failure Mode & Effects Analysis (FMEA) represents a significant shift in how Failure Modes and Effects Analysis is approached and applied in various industries. Originally rooted in the automotive sector, FMEA methodologies have broadened to include industries like aviation and medical equipment, highlighting its universal relevance. The AIAG & VDA … [Read more...] about An Introduction to AIAG & VDA FMEA Methodology
Quality of the Future
Quality management (QM) is evolving beyond traditional product-focused methods to embrace comprehensive customer experiences and service integration, reflecting the dynamic nature of customer needs in various industries, including mobility. The study, in collaboration with TU Berlin, highlights the importance of developing QM organizations that are proactive and tailored to … [Read more...] about Quality of the Future
Nine Tips to Better Process Development
Achieving exceptional results in process development requires mastering specific techniques designed to design successful, waste-free processes. The initial step in effective process development is appointing a system architect who can oversee the process's comprehensive and detailed aspects and ensure alignment with broader management systems. Emphasis is placed on developing … [Read more...] about Nine Tips to Better Process Development
What Is Value Stream Mapping & How Is It Used in Six Sigma
Value Stream Mapping (VSM) is a pivotal tool in Six Sigma, a methodology aimed at improving product quality and efficiency by minimizing errors, variations, and waste. Initially developed in manufacturing environments such as Motorola and later adapted across various industries, including finance and healthcare, VSM is a visual method that analyzes and optimizes the entire flow … [Read more...] about What Is Value Stream Mapping & How Is It Used in Six Sigma
What are Boeing’s Bad Manufacturing Habits Leading to Quality and Reliability Risks?
Boeing has faced significant scrutiny over its manufacturing practices, which have recently been linked to several quality and reliability issues, including the high-profile 737 Max series air crashes and a near-disaster involving an Alaska Airlines Max 9. Key factors contributing to these incidents include accepting substandard parts from suppliers, deferred problem-solving to … [Read more...] about What are Boeing’s Bad Manufacturing Habits Leading to Quality and Reliability Risks?
Root Cause Analysis 101
This 36-page primer on Root cause analysis (RCA) from audit software supplier EASE covers this essential method in quality management. RCA is used to diagnose the fundamental reason for faults or problems. Five common RCA methods are Pareto Charts, The 5 Whys, Fishbone Diagrams, Scatter Plots, and Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (FMEA). This structured approach helps identify … [Read more...] about Root Cause Analysis 101
Force Measurement and AI: Predicting Product Failure
Ensuring that products meet rigorous standards for quality and reliability is paramount, making force measurement a critical aspect of manufacturing. This testing method allows quality control professionals to verify that products are robust and comply with specified standards before they reach the market. Integrating Artificial Intelligence (AI) into this process has … [Read more...] about Force Measurement and AI: Predicting Product Failure
What is a Fishbone Diagram?
Fishbone diagrams, also known as Ishikawa diagrams or cause-and-effect diagrams, are visual tools used to systematically identify potential factors causing an overall effect, particularly in troubleshooting and quality improvement sessions. The diagram looks like the skeleton of a fish, where the problem or effect is the fish's head, and the bones branching off the spine … [Read more...] about What is a Fishbone Diagram?
What is COPQ (Cost of Poor Quality)?
The Cost of Poor Quality (COPQ) encapsulates the financial costs of failing to meet production and service delivery standards. These costs are broadly categorized into four types: prevention costs, appraisal costs, internal failure costs, and external failure costs. Prevention costs involve expenditures to prevent defects from occurring, such as training and quality planning. … [Read more...] about What is COPQ (Cost of Poor Quality)?
Critical failure factors for Quality 4.0: an exploratory qualitative study
Adoption of Quality 4.0 (Q4.0) in organizations is challenging. Identifying the critical failure factors (CFFs) can lead to more effective implementation of Q4.0 initiatives. Researchers used a qualitative research methodology involving in-depth interviews with quality managers and executives to help establish the CFFs associated with Q4.0. This approach enriches the existing … [Read more...] about Critical failure factors for Quality 4.0: an exploratory qualitative study
Mutual combination of selected principles and technologies of Industry 4.0 and quality management methods
A detailed exploration of integrating Industry 4.0 technologies and principles with quality management methods, specifically through Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (FMEA), can be presented using a "Smart Factory Line" testbed. This method aims to verify the feasibility of applying FMEA in a complex technical system and to demonstrate the potential of integrating Industry 4.0 … [Read more...] about Mutual combination of selected principles and technologies of Industry 4.0 and quality management methods
AI in operational excellence
Artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming business operations by enhancing efficiency, minimizing waste, and supporting continuous improvement. AI and its subfields like machine learning (ML), deep learning, and automation augment traditional operational excellence strategies such as Lean, Six Sigma, and total quality management (TQM). For instance, AI aids in identifying … [Read more...] about AI in operational excellence