In the latest mini-episode of Caleb’s Corner, we dove into a crucial topic every quality professional faces: When do you keep tweaking your system, and when is it time for a total overhaul? This fundamental concept, often described as Iterative Design vs. Radical Redesign, isn’t just for software developers; it’s highly applicable across all areas of Quality Management Systems (QMS).

As the Quality Software Manager at Texas Quality Assurance (TQA), much of my work revolves around our TQA Cloud platform, which helps clients manage everything from calibration and maintenance to employee training and document control. In developing the next version of our app—which will offer a smoother, more integrated experience—I face constant decisions on whether to improve existing features incrementally or scrap and rebuild entire modules.

Iterative Design is the practice of making small, controlled adjustments to improve a system continuously. This approach:

In many cases, iterative design is the safest and most effective way to evolve a QMS software platform or any quality management process.

However, there are times when no amount of tweaking will get you where you need to be. This is where Radical Redesign becomes necessary. Sometimes, your approach is fundamentally flawed for the goals you’re trying to achieve. Signs it’s time for a full rebuild include:

In these cases, starting fresh allows you to rethink your processes, design for today’s needs, and set a stronger foundation for future growth.

In the world of quality management consulting, we frequently help clients evaluate their systems through this very lens. Whether we’re advising on ISO 9001 compliance, API Q1 certification, or customizing TQA Cloud for a new client, the same question applies: Is this a tweak or a rebuild?

By regularly assessing your QMS and leveraging both iterative design and radical redesign when appropriate, you can ensure your systems are not only compliant but also practical, scalable, and truly supportive of your business objectives.

Struggling to determine whether your quality system needs a few small adjustments or a complete redesign? Texas Quality Assurance can help. With decades of experience in quality management systems, compliance, and software solutions, we guide companies just like yours through these critical decisions every day.

#QualityMatters, #CalebsCorner, #QualityManagement, #QMS, #ISO9001, #APIQ1, #ContinuousImprovement, #IterativeDesign, #RadicalRedesign, #TexasQualityAssurance, #TQACloud

Call us today at (281) 756-7316 or email [email protected] to schedule a consultation.

When you think of innovation in manufacturing, do you picture automation, robotics, or AI-driven workflows? In this episode, Cy Rankin challenges that notion by sharing a counterintuitive truth: sometimes, the most innovative thing you can do is make your business boring—in all the right ways.

Cy leads Texas Stress, a Houston-based company that specializes in welding stress relief services. He was recently invited to speak at the American Welding Society Convention in The Woodlands. His presentation, rather than dazzling with futuristic trends, focused on one core principle: master the basics and execute consistently.

Cy argues that the foundation of true innovation lies in business fundamentals: things like repeatable processes, clear responsibilities, reliable timelines, and straightforward expectations. These “boring” elements are often dismissed, but they’re exactly what allow a company to scale, maintain customer satisfaction, and stay compliant with standards like ISO 9001.

Whether you’re a quality professional, an operations leader, or someone who just wants your business to run better, this episode is packed with real-world insight.

🛠️ Key Takeaways

1. Make Business Predictable

Cy explains that predictability is a feature, not a flaw. By keeping operations consistent and minimizing chaos, you earn trust from your team and clients alike.

2. Quality Management Is Not Paperwork

The episode highlights how quality management systems aren’t about red tape—they’re about results. Proper documentation and training are tools to build confidence, reduce errors, and ensure long-term reliability.

3. Speak the Language of Simplicity

Cy’s approach to presenting at a major industry event? Keep it simple. Speak clearly. Focus on what people actually do, not just what looks good in a PowerPoint. This applies equally to leadership and quality strategy.

4. Innovation Doesn’t Mean Chaos

While innovation often gets tied to disruption, Cy reminds us that innovation can also mean refining what already works—especially in industries like welding where reliability is king.

📌 About the Guest

Cy Rankin is a leader at Texas Stress, a company known for its expertise in heat treatment and welding stress relief. With deep industry knowledge and a passion for practical quality solutions, Cy bridges the gap between shop floor execution and executive vision.

🔗 Resources & Mentions

In Episode 216 of #QualityMatters, we explore the climate change amendment, a concise yet impactful update to ISO 9001 that compels organizations to identify and address climate-related risks within their quality management systems. This climate change amendment—just two lines of text—requires companies to determine whether climate change is an issue and to integrate relevant controls into their existing processes.

ISO 9001 has long embraced risk-based thinking, but until recently, “environmental” considerations focused on product conformity and resource usage. The new ISO 9001 amendment explicitly brings climate risk into scope, aligning quality management with global sustainability goals. By articulating climate change as an “interested party” requirement, the amendment extends the standard’s reach into environmental stewardship without creating a separate ISO document.

The amendment reads:

Though minimal, this language integrates seamlessly into Clauses 4 and 6 of ISO 9001:2015, reinforcing the risk-based framework and ensuring that climate considerations become an embedded part of continual improvement.

“Determine whether climate change is an issue” may sound broad, but organizations can ground this in real-world examples. For instance:

By mapping these risks in a dedicated section of the risk register, companies demonstrate compliance with the climate change amendment and strengthen overall process resilience.

Shortly after publication, the International Accreditation Forum (IAF guidance) issued a complementary document outlining how auditors should verify compliance:

This IAF guidance ensures consistent treatment across certification bodies, preventing arbitrary interpretations and audit surprises.

Incorporating the amendment into audit planning involves:

Organizations should update their audit checklists and risk-based audit plans to reflect these changes, ensuring no climate-related requirement is overlooked.

Different certification bodies have nuanced approaches:

Regardless of format, all audit reports must clearly note climate-risk identification and associated controls, with nonconformities raised where evidence is insufficient.

To get ahead of the climate change amendment and streamline future audits:

While the amendment itself is brief, its implications span procurement, production, and strategic planning. Embedding climate considerations today not only satisfies the ISO 9001 amendment but also positions organizations to meet evolving stakeholder expectations around sustainability and corporate responsibility.

Welcome to the very first episode of Caleb’s Corner, part of the #QualityMatters podcast! If you’re a welder, inspector, or anyone curious about stepping into the welding inspection world, this episode is your step-by-step, real-world guide on how to become a Certified Welding Inspector (CWI).

Based on Caleb’s personal journey — from welding school to earning his CWI certification, and later moving into software development — this episode breaks down everything you need to know that most official guides don’t tell you. You’ll hear practical, boots-on-the-ground advice that will save you time, money, and frustration.

Why Become a Certified Welding Inspector?

Many welders realize early that staying on the shop floor or crawling through tight spaces forever isn’t a sustainable long-term plan. A CWI certification opens doors to inspections, NDT (non-destructive testing), and higher-paying quality roles, while building on your welding foundation.

Understand the Process (and Why It’s Hard)

Becoming a CWI isn’t easy. The AWS CWI exam is intentionally challenging, and it should be — you’re certifying yourself as an expert. Expect to study extensively in these three main areas:

The exam isn’t just about memorizing answers — it’s about learning how to read, interpret, and apply complex standards accurately. AWS intentionally mixes topics to test your comprehension, not your memory.

Choose a Solid Prep Course

The prep course is critical. Caleb highly recommends Real Educational Services (or similar reputable prep programs). These courses walk you through the code books and show you where to tab important sections. They provide practice exams that simulate the actual AWS exam format. They offer real-world tips on navigating tricky AWS wording and test traps. They help clarify differences between similar concepts like welder qualification vs procedure qualification.

Pro tip: Schedule your AWS exam as close as possible to your prep course — ideally within one week, but no longer than one month after the course, to retain fresh knowledge.

Commit to a Study Schedule

Caleb studied for 2 hours per night for about 3 months before taking the prep course, followed by focused practice right up to the exam. Plan to review every section you’re weak in (TIG welding, NDT, safety, etc.). Use your prep course study materials to guide your self-study. Focus on reading comprehension — not just memorization. Practice navigating the actual code book under time pressure.

Master Reading Comprehension

This skill is crucial. The AWS exam is designed to trip you up with fine distinctions. You need to fully read every question before attempting to answer. Pay attention to footnotes, exceptions, and definitions. Double-check whether the question refers to procedure qualification or welder qualification. Build speed while maintaining accuracy.

Tip: While reading your prep materials, pause frequently and quiz yourself: “Do I really understand this paragraph?”

Know What the Exam Looks Like

The exam consists of three parts:

Even though some parts may now be virtual, the essential principles remain: you must be able to apply your knowledge — not just recite facts.

After You Pass

You’ll receive your official CWI card within a few weeks. Understand your renewal responsibilities — typically every 2 and 4 years. Stay involved in continuing education to maintain certification.

Final Words of Advice

Take the process seriously — don’t shortcut your prep. Use your prep course instructors as resources — they know the exam inside and out. Remember: the hardest part is often learning how to read the code effectively. Once certified, your options open up for future career growth: NDT, UT, software, consulting, and more.

Bonus: We’re Here to Help

At Texas Quality Assurance and #QualityMatters, we don’t just consult — we mentor and support folks starting or growing in the quality world. Whether you’re exploring CWI, NDT, ISO certification, or need help writing your first procedures — we’re happy to take your call, share advice, and point you toward the next right step.

Subscribe to the channel and follow along as we continue to share real-world quality insights, training, and coaching.

#QualityMatters #CalebsCorner #WeldingInspector #CWI #AWS #WeldingCertification #QualityControl #InspectionCareer #NDT #CareerAdvice

In this episode of the #QualityMatters podcast, Kyle and Caleb dive deep into a topic that touches every business, from manufacturing to customer service—the true cost of poor quality. But this isn’t your typical lecture on scrap and rework. The guys bring stories, perspectives, and real-world relevance to the table—from customer loyalty and personal tech decisions, to school choice and workforce skills, to the vital role of culture in shaping quality outcomes.

Caleb kicks off the episode with a personal story that many of us can relate to: a frustrating experience with a major cell phone manufacturer that ultimately led him to switch to Apple. This wasn’t just about technical specs or flashy features—it was about how quality (or the lack of it) is perceived by customers. When something breaks or a system doesn’t work as promised, customers don’t just lose patience—they lose trust.

“It wasn’t the cost of the broken phone. It was the cost of lost time and support that pushed me to change brands.” – Caleb

This example underscores a key theme: poor quality isn’t always measured in dollars—it’s often paid for in loyalty, reputation, and long-term business.

Shifting gears, Kyle reflects on education choices for his sons—particularly the value of vocational training and skilled trades. In a world that’s heavily focused on four-year degrees, Kyle advocates for alternative education paths that equip young people with tangible skills—and the ability to contribute meaningfully in quality-centric roles from day one.

“We’ve got to stop thinking a good education only happens in a classroom. It happens in a shop, at a lathe, with a wrench in your hand.”

This discussion challenges us to rethink how we prepare the next generation for quality-focused careers, and how education directly impacts organizational quality from the ground up.

Of course, no episode about poor quality would be complete without touching on the more visible costs—scrap, rework, waste, and lost production time. The hosts break down how these issues creep into operations and why they are symptoms, not the root cause.

Caleb reminds us that you can’t fix culture with corrective actions alone, and that lasting change must address both processes and people.

What ties all these topics together? Culture.

The heart of the episode rests in the idea that quality begins with people, and the culture that leaders build around them. A culture that values continuous improvement, feedback, and pride in workmanship is the only true long-term solution to preventing quality failures—whether they happen on the shop floor or in customer support.

QualityMatters, #CostOfPoorQuality, #CustomerExperience, #TradeEducation, #QualityCulture, #ManufacturingMatters, #LeadershipDevelopment, #ContinuousImprovement

In this episode of #QualityMatters, Kyle and Caleb dig into one of the most foundational yet overlooked elements in quality management: consistency. It’s not about control for control’s sake—it’s about ensuring that your process can deliver the same reliable result tomorrow as it did yesterday.

They explore why consistency is the backbone of quality control and what happens when organizations focus more on documentation than actual delivery. The conversation challenges the idea of checking boxes just to meet requirements, and instead shifts focus toward process repeatability and real-world performance.

Whether you’re building out a QMS or fine-tuning what you’ve already got, this episode delivers practical insights on how to assess and reinforce process consistency across your operations. Quality isn’t about paperwork—it’s about results that don’t waver.

Stay Connected and Updated with #QualityMatters: Discover more about quality management and save time and energy on what truly matters. Visit the #QualityMatters homepage for insightful content and episodes: http://qmcast.com. Learn more about our services and expertise at Texas Quality Assurance: Texas Quality Assurance and explore the innovative TQA Cloud for your quality management needs: TQA Cloud.

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In this episode of #QualityMatters, Kyle and Caleb switch things up with a more hands-on approach to problem-solving. Instead of tackling world-scale issues, they focus on real-world examples of how people are navigating challenges in quality management. It’s all about learning from others, taking inspiration, and finding practical solutions that can be applied today.

#QualityManagement, #ProblemSolving, #QMS, #QualitySolutions, #QualityMatters, #RealWorldQuality, #QualityPodcast, #QualityImprovement, #ProcessManagement, #LeadershipInQuality

Kyle and Caleb explore how others have successfully addressed obstacles in quality management, offering insights into effective processes, tools, and strategies that make a difference on the ground level. Their conversational approach makes complex problem-solving feel accessible and relevant, with actionable tips you can apply immediately.

If you’re looking for fresh perspectives on quality management or need inspiration to tackle your own challenges, this episode is packed with practical advice and a fun, relatable discussion that makes the process feel less daunting.

In this episode of #QualityMatters, Kyle and Caleb explore how the world outside your office walls is impacting your quality management system (QMS) – and how you can make your processes more agile, resilient, and ready for whatever comes next.

From supply chain chaos to shifting regulations, external events aren’t just news stories; they’re challenges that directly affect how we do business. But here’s the good news: Kyle and Caleb aren’t just talking about the problem – they’re talking about how you can turn these challenges into opportunities to strengthen your QMS.

Why External Events Matter to Your QMS

Whether it’s a sudden disruption in your supply chain or a global regulatory shift, external events can throw a wrench into even the most well-oiled quality management system. But the real question is: How do you respond?

In this episode, Kyle and Caleb break down the importance of keeping your quality practices flexible. Adaptability is key to maintaining a robust QMS that not only survives but thrives despite challenges.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

By the end of this episode, you’ll have actionable insights into making your QMS agile—ensuring it’s always one step ahead of whatever the world throws at it.

QualityManagement, #QMS, #AgileQuality, #ProcessImprovement, #ExternalEvents, #SupplyChain, #RegulatoryChanges, #QualityMatters, #BusinessAgility, #QualityLeadership

Stay Connected and Updated with #QualityMatters: Discover more about quality management and save time and energy on what truly matters. Visit the #QualityMatters homepage for insightful content and episodes: http://qmcast.com. Learn more about our services and expertise at Texas Quality Assurance: Texas Quality Assurance and explore the innovative TQA Cloud for your quality management needs: TQA Cloud.

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The Autopen controversy isn’t just a political debate—it raises real concerns about document control, compliance, and security that affect businesses just as much as governments. In this episode, Kyle Chambers and Caleb Adcock examined the risks of automated signatures, using the presidential pardon debate as a case study to highlight issues in business document approval processes.

Here’s what we discussed and the key lessons businesses should take away from it.

One of the biggest concerns with Autopen is that it allows a document to be signed without the direct action of the signatory. That raises a simple but important question: Who is truly responsible for a document signed this way?

🔹 Key Lesson: If a signature is applied automatically, there must be clear accountability for who approved it and under what circumstances. Otherwise, there’s room for disputes, denials, and legal challenges.

✅ Best Practice: Organizations should require that signatures, even automated ones, are tied to direct authorization—whether that’s physical verification, two-step approval, or documented oversight.

One of the major discussion points in the episode was how the use of Autopen in presidential pardons raised concerns about document authenticity. If a signature can be applied without the person’s involvement, how do we know it was actually approved by them?

This problem isn’t just political—it happens in business whenever document approvals are automated without sufficient controls.

🔹 Key Lesson: Automation must not replace oversight. If approval processes are automated, businesses need safeguards to ensure documents aren’t signed without review or authorization.

✅ Best Practice: If using automated or digital signatures, businesses should require:

The podcast examined how the Autopen issue led to legal challenges over presidential pardons, with some arguing that they weren’t legally valid because they weren’t signed manually.

The same issue applies in business: if a company can’t prove a document was signed with proper authorization, that document could be challenged in legal or regulatory settings.

🔹 Key Lesson: If signatures lack clear authentication and approval tracking, they could be legally contested, leading to compliance failures, contract disputes, or regulatory penalties.

✅ Best Practice: Businesses should ensure that document approval policies align with legal standards—especially in regulated industries.

A major discussion point in the episode was how unauthorized signatures could be applied without the signer’s direct involvement. Whether it’s Autopen in government or digital approvals in business, there’s a risk of misuse if controls aren’t in place.

🔹 Key Lesson: If someone gains access to an automated signing system, they could approve documents without proper authority, creating serious legal and security risks.

✅ Best Practice:

#Autopen, #DocumentControl, #QualityManagement, #Compliance, #DigitalSignatures, #Cybersecurity, #AutomatedApprovals, #LegalCompliance, #SignatureAuthentication, #RiskManagement

The Autopen controversy is a clear example of what happens when document approvals aren’t handled with proper oversight. Whether in government or business, the key takeaway is that:

📌 Signatures represent accountability, and automated approvals must be controlled.
📌 If a document’s approval process is unclear, it opens the door to disputes and security risks.
📌 Businesses must ensure that automated signatures are properly tracked, secured, and legally compliant.

If you need to improve document control processes in your business, visit TexasQA.com or call (512) 548-9001 to ensure your approvals, compliance, and risk management are secure.

Stay Connected and Updated with #QualityMatters: Discover more about quality management and save time and energy on what truly matters. Visit the #QualityMatters homepage for insightful content and episodes: http://qmcast.com. Learn more about our services and expertise at Texas Quality Assurance: Texas Quality Assurance and explore the innovative TQA Cloud for your quality management needs: TQA Cloud.

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Investing in quality always pays off, while cutting corners rarely does.

In episode 210, we dove into how critical it is to make quality management accessible and practical for businesses of every size. Too often, compliance and quality tasks become overly complex, leading to mistakes, confusion, and, ultimately, higher costs.

Caleb, the brains behind our TQA Cloud software, shared valuable insights on how simplifying complex compliance activities through smart software development can dramatically improve business performance. By automating tedious tasks and reducing human error, businesses can significantly enhance productivity, compliance accuracy, and overall effectiveness.

The upcoming TQA Cloud QMS Software app (release date coming soon!) embodies these lessons by providing:

Quality management shouldn’t be a burden—it should be the foundation that empowers your business to thrive.

Stay tuned for updates on the official app launch, and remember: Quality management is about doing what matters most.

#QualityMatters, #TQACloud, #Compliance, #QualityManagement, #MobileApp, #RiskManagement, #ISO9001, #SimplifyCompliance

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Stay Connected and Updated with #QualityMatters: Discover more about quality management and save time and energy on what truly matters. Visit the #QualityMatters homepage for insightful content and episodes: http://qmcast.com. Learn more about our services and expertise at Texas Quality Assurance: Texas Quality Assurance and explore the innovative TQA Cloud for your quality management needs: TQA Cloud.

Subscribe to the #QualityMatters Podcast: