THE VIEW FROM WASHINGTON Continued from page 15 * Debates can be mind-opening - "actively" listening to opposing opinions can help you think out of the box - they can offer a broader range of alternatives, excite imagination, and ignite creativity. * Debates help remind you that, while business is about competition, it is also about compromise and cooperation. The philosophy of Part 145 is a performance-based system to manage risk and ensure airworthiness. It seems to me that the prescriptive approach of the absolute and blind application of the SAS/DCT process is contrary to this philosophy. The regulations required the establishment of an accountable manager: the person designated by the certificated repair station who is responsible for and has the authority over all repair station operations conducted under Part 145. That person should know the design and infrastructure of the business; they should know the organization of their business; and they should know their quality system. Having a debate about the repair station and its operations will help deepen the accountable manager's understanding of the repair station when he or she "actively" listens to opposing views offered by the indicators contained within the SAS/DCT. At the same time, a debate will also show the breadth and depth of the accountable manager's knowledge of the repair station's business indicating the commitment to positive and successful management of risk. Remember: To debate is not to argue; a debate is not a war; and most importantly, to debate does not mean one team must win while the other one must lose (both can be successful). Debate is, and should be, a critical and essential element to continuous improvement. q avionics news * june 2019 51http://elliottaviation.com