It is widely believed that ‘An ounce of prevention is better than a pound of cure’. There are sixteen ounces in a pound. To understand the saying better it needs to be converted into the prevalent metric system. It comes to one kilogram (kg) of prevention is better than sixteen kgs of cure.

In Quality Management there is a golden rule, ‘Corrective action must lead to preventive measures’. Unfortunately, in the land of the pure the approach is opposite. Focus is on grabbing the pound as no one is interested in the ounce, mainly because the bigger the pie the bigger the opportunity to skim by over-invoicing the expenses.

To come out of this malaise, a major course correction is required, which no one has the courage to fight for. Those who try are made to suffer. It is projected as a way of life in the Islamic Republic of Pakistan. Recently, the nation celebrated the birth of the Holy Prophet (PBUH) while his conduct is mostly overlooked. In the words of Iqbal, ‘The covenants (Code of Shariat) that were ignored by us were all picked up by the West ‘. While our ignorance continues to hurt us, their enlightenment has taken them to heights.

It is all about prevention and preservation. All man-made systems must be maintained. Corrections are needed which then lead to preventative mechanisms. To avoid breakdowns, preventative maintenance is required.........

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