11The Process, the Product, and Its Ultimate Life Span
optimize these factors. Stressful working conditions, ambiguous
direction, lack of feedback, and an antagonistic supervisory climate
are always counterproductive.
Equipment Components: These are discrete elements that recongure the
process. In some cases, they are swapped in and out as needed to
suit the product. In the worst cases, interchangeable parts are not
identical, in the way they affect performance. The baker asks, do I
use the aluminum, steel, or ceramic bread pan? Which set of beat-
ers do I plug into the power mixer today? Is the appropriate tool
clean and close at hand? What alternative might be substituted if the
right one is not available? These decisions might be very consi ...