TQM Fades PDQ

Why do management fads come and go so fast? Blame consultants, says a new study, reported in yesterday's Wall Street Journal (paid subscription). Looking at the rise and fall of Total Quality Management, the study concludes that consultants with no particular expertise glummed onto the idea when it seemed hot, and then scrammed when the next new idea came along. The study calls opportunistic consultants "fashion surfers."

What, you want to blame the media, too? Don't look at us!