Deming – A System of Profound Knowledge; why variation matters, and what you can do about it

Red Beads Experiment – Morning only option now available

Morning session:

Join Dr Jackie Graham, who worked with Dr Deming, for a hands-on, thought provoking session on how systems thinking, understanding variation and respect for people can drive real change.

This engaging event will feature Deming’s famous Red Bead Experiment, led by Dr Graham, to explore the timeless lessons behind why systems — not individuals — are often the real source of performance issues. Through live participation and reflection, you’ll see how Deming’s System of Profound Knowledge continues to shape modern thinking on leadership, improvement, and transformation.

In the morning, we’ll explore:

• Why most improvement efforts fail — and what to do differently
• The power of viewing problems through a systems lens
• Who really has the power to effect change in your organisation
• Why respect for people is not optional for long-term success
• Deming’s System of Profound Knowledge — and how to apply it today
• … and the surprising power of asking the right questions

Morning Only Event Details

When:  Thursday 12th June 2025
Where:  Eastern Hub Geelong, 285A McKillop Street, East Geelong
Time:    8.30am – 12.30pm
Cost:   $45 incl gst
Morning Tea Provided

Book for Morning Session only

Full Day Session Event Details

Dr Jackie Graham, worked with Dr Deming. Jackie will perform the Deming’s famous Red Bead Experiment and link the learning’s to Deming’s System of Profound Knowledge.

At this event, we’ll have fun exploring:

• Viewing problems through a systems lens
• Why many improvements efforts fail.
• Who has the real power to effect change in your organisation?
• Why respect for people is essential for long term success.
• Deming’s System of Profound Knowledge
and much more … including the power of reflecting on the right questions

After lunch we’ll explore how to

Make things happen: linking variation and systems thinking

Dr Graham will discuss the power of combining the theories of systems and variation thinking. The dice experiment will be used to illustrate the dynamic impact of systems and variation and will show how to increase productivity and reduce work-in-progress. At the conclusion of the experiment Dr Graham will link the dice experiment back to Dr Deming’s theory of profound knowledge.

Morning tea and a light lunch will be provided, and an opportunity to network with fellow attendees

After WWII Dr W Edwards Deming helped Japan rebuild their war-torn country. In a few short years they transformed from an embattled country to a leading manufacturing nation. Deming helped the leaders of Japan to understand their businesses as systems.  He taught them to use an evidence-based approach to learn about their systems and how to go about improvement.

Deming became a major figure in the US and synthesised his philosophy in the ‘System of Profound Knowledge’ before he passed away in the early 90’s. 30 years later his philosophies are still as relevant today.

Dr Jackie Graham had the privilege of working with Dr Deming when he was consulting and teaching in seminars. She has made immense contributions in the Asia pacific region to organisations in industries as varied as automotive, food, transport, construction, and healthcare as well as government. Jackie is also a big Cats Fan and has been our 12 Days to Deming Course Mentor since 2021.

Jackie will take us to the core of Deming’s teachings and System of Profound Knowledge. The presentation will include reflective questions Deming used in his seminars.

Cost: $97 + $2.93 booking fee

Book Now

Note: Refunds are available up to 1 day prior to the event