Chapter Twenty
Eliminate Key Constraints
One of the true tests of leadership is the ability to recognize a problem before it becomes an emergency.
Arnold Glasow
My friend Tom was asking me for a long time to come to the park for a walk with him. However, I could not make it due to my hectic schedules, training programs and assignments. When I met him after a long time for a walk, he was excited. We discussed various topics and finally our discussion boiled down on the concept of Theory of Constraints (TOC). He said that we need to identify the weak links, rectify them and move forward to achieve success in life. I thought for a while and explained to him what TOC was and its importance for achieving success in our personal, professional and social life.
Life is full of challenges. We face several constraints in order to survive and grow. Most of the constraints are external rather than internal ones. External constraints are beyond the control of human beings. People often fail due to external constraints, rather than internal constraints. Internal constraints are easily manageable while external constraints are tough to predict and manage. However, TOC is handy as it helps in managing key external constraints. In this regard, let us discuss TOC.
What is Theory of Constraints (TOC)?
TOC has been coined by Dr Eliyahu M. Goldratt in his book The Goal. It is also known as Constraint Management. It is closely connected with TQM (Total Quality Management). It is widely used by everyone, but people often don’t know that they are using this approach. TOC goes closely with change management, as change can be effected through TOC very easily. It emphasizes on what is to be changed, how it is to be changed, and when it is to be changed to make things better qualitatively. It is a qualitative tool to improve the processes in order to make goods or services better. Currently, its importance is being felt in all sectors and industries.
Merits of TOC
TOC can be used in all walks of life where we want to add value by breaking the bottlenecks. It adds value and makes a difference in the lives of others. TOC can also be used in problem-solving. It helps us identify the root of the problem and provides suitable remedial measures. Most of the people fail to spot the bottlenecks while resolving their problems, or while they are enjoying success. However, TOC helps spot exactly where the problem lies and addresses it.
TOC Process
Problems are like plants; you’ve got to get to the roots in order to prevent them from popping up again.
Brian G. Jett
In his book Theory of Constraints, Goldratt outlines a five-step process to applying the theory. The five stages are as follows:
- Identify the process constraints.
- Decide how best to exploit the process constraints.
- Subordinate everything else to the above decisions.
- Evaluate the process constraint.
- Remove the constraint and re-evaluate the process.
Succinctly, the process of TOC is all about spotting the system constraints, searching for the weakest links, thinking of means to strengthen them, addressing them effectively and evaluating them for takeaways. In order to be successful, it is important to identify these constraints and address them.
The concept of TOC is catching up globally due to rapidly changing times and technologies. It is a boon for the companies that are struggling to compete and stay ahead of others. Organizationally, leaders have a challenging role to play to identify the key constraints in processes and systems, and work for strengthening and enhancing organizational effectiveness and excellence. Individually, people can make use of this concept to accomplish their goals and reach success. To conclude, TOC is going to play a crucial role in eliminating the key constraints.