A large number of applications of generic model control (GMC) have been published in the literature. However, an overview of the potential difficulties in implementation has not been provided. This paper evaluates the basic GMC algorithm when applied to single input single output linear processes and provides insight regarding its limitation to ensure robust stability. The effect of sampling time on the reference trajectory for discrete systems is analyzed in order to avoid unstable responses for perfect models. Finally, a predictive GMC is developed to handle models with dead time in a reliable way.