Better railroading is 10% planning plus 90% execution. It’s simple math.
- No train or engine or equipment may occupy any track without first obtaining proper authority.
- We call that authority—the issuing, recording, modification and fulfillment of that authority—the vitality or vital process of railroading.
- Expect the movement of trains or equipment on any track at any time in either direction (in violation of 1 and 2 above).
- Every operating decision is a financial decision. Keep that in mind when ordering an extra crew.
- Every financial decision is an operating decision. Keep that in mind before embarking on force reductions.
- Proper planning prevents piss-poor performance.
- “Everybody has a plan until they get punched in the face.” – Mike Tyson
- Your job is to not get punched.
- Knowing how to adapt the plan as punches are launched saves on reconstructive surgery.
- Listen to everything being said.
- “Believe none of what you hear, and half of what you see,” – Gladys Knight, Marvin Gaye, “I Heard It Through The Grapevine.”
- Be patient.
- Act with urgency.
- Learn from everyone.
- Don’t let anyone tell you how to do your job.
- Make sure you’re right.
- Never be afraid to be wrong.
- Authority = Responsibility. You get both.
- FRA sets minimal standards for safe train operations.
- Don’t be satisfied with meeting 19, above.
- Your job is to minimize the risks to the safe and efficient delivery of service.
- Although it tears at your heart, sometimes the regulator is right.
- When someone who works for you doesn’t do the job right, tell him or her, “You’re not doing the job correctly.”
- When that someone not doing the job properly responds, “If you don’t like the way I’m doing the job, send me home and do it yourself,” send him or her home without hesitation. Immediately.
- Do the job yourself.
- Following points 1 through 25 above does not guarantee success.
- Not following points 1 through 26 guarantees failure.
