Unwritten Laws of Engineering (Paperback)

~ W. J. King (Author), (Author), American Society of Mechanical Engineers (Corporate Author)

Editorial Reviews

Product Description

This fully revised and updated edition of the 1944 classic serves as a crucial compilation of 'house rules' or a professional code. This new edition keeps the style of the original and much of its content. Changes reflect shifted societal values, changed employment laws and evolved corporate structures. Packed with contemporary examples, this new volume is a must for those entering the engineering field or for those interested in improving their professional effectiveness.

Product Details

• Paperback: 69 pages
• Publisher: American Society of Mechanical Engineers; Revised edition (June 2001)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0791801624
• ISBN-13: 978-0791801628
• Product Dimensions: 8.2 x 5.3 x 0.4 inches
• Shipping Weight: 3.2 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (2 customer reviews)
• Amazon.com Sales Rank: #91,317 in Books (See Bestsellers in Books)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

9 of 9 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars A timeless gem, February 11, 2007

By	Krot (Vancouver, Canada) - See all my reviews

This 60 page pamphlet was originally written in 1944 and re-published in 2001 with minor edits. I am surprised this is the first review, so I will make it longer. It is a gem of practical advice on how to succeed in an engineering organization as an engineer and manager. It should be a must read for everyone in this field. It is amazing how relevant all the advice from 1944 is still today. People don't change! The book was probably written by a mechanical engineer, but was 100% relevant to me - a software engineer and will likely be equally relevant to other cubical dwellers with engineering degrees and their managers.

The language style of the book was preserved from 40s edition and makes the book even more entertaining to read, but I do take its advice seriously. The advice in the book is very simple and aimed at helping novices adapt to engineering environment faster. Good refresher for everyone though.

The advice is related to how to communicate with manager, co-workers and, in general, how to behave to succeed in an engineering organization without sacrificing your principals. It emphasizes that your communication skills are more important than any technical skills you have. Simple things like "strive to be concise" (I wish I was in this review), "be careful of accuracy of your statements", "don't invade domain of another department without consent or fire may erupt", "cultivate the habit of seeking people's opinions", "promises, schedules and estimates are necessary", "show interest in what your employees are doing", " do all you can to protect the personal interests of your subordinates and their families", and my favorite: "do all you can to see that your subordinates get all the salary to which they are entitled". :) There is actually more stuff for managers in this pamphlet, but, as it correctly notes, every aspiring engineer will, over time, have some managerial tasks. All in all, a great quick read to keep you on your game.

1 of 1 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Life Saver, December 30, 2007

By	Frank Wear "Frank" (Frank) - See all my reviews (REAL NAME)

I read this book in 1990 when I started my Engineering career. I purchased copies of it for the engineers in my department at the time and have always remembered it's advice. I have re-read it several times and and count this little book as one of my most valuable posessions. I still have my original, beaten and worn.