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Two Adventures in Germany
Selected from Adventures in Global Consulting

Until I Die

During one series of inspections, involving the production of sterile products, I noticed that the connections between parts, intended to be sterile, were being made by "flaming", a process where each part to be connected is heated by a flame, to kill any living organisms, after which they were attached.

I pointed out to the staff that this was now considered old fashioned, and not sufficiently controllable. Rather, the ends should be pre-sterilized, preferably in an autoclave, and then connected in a sterile area, under a well-controlled hood.

Everyone listened respectfully, and then, as the staff left the room, I heard one of the older technicians say, "They can say what they like, but I will flame until I die!"

Learnings and lessons:

Just saying something has to be changed does not mean that it will be.

Even with the best of supports, a change in generation may be required before changes actually happen.

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Wine on Expense Account

In another example of interesting expense account manipulation, I was out with a rather large party, and enjoyed good food and great wine.

It happened that when the host, who was a sales representative for a major company, went to pay, I was in a discussion nearby, allowing me to listen in on the following fascinating exchange.

"That was a great wine." "Thank you."

"I would like to have a case of that wine sent to my home address. Add the cost to the bill for the dinner"

"Of course, sir."

Learnings and lesson:

Never underestimate the inventiveness of a person with an expense account.