A chain is as strong as its weakest link

Last night I was reading the book Theory of constraints - while at work I was having conversation on how enhanced infra enables capacity building and I was applying the logic of bringing the best out of current capacity to two of my very sharp colleagues. Recollecting my SAFe certifications learning that solely focused on reducing WIP. And when it comes to WIP the only example that comes to my mind is from the book The Goal from the same author.

TOC is process improvement methodology that focuses on identifying system constraints and by leveraging or exploiting the constraints system can achieve maximum flow and operate at optimum capacity, reducing lead time and WIP.

When applied to system design, TOC helps in creating more efficient and effective systems by focusing on optimizing the constraints or bottlenecks.

In system design, TOC can -

1. Identifying Constraints: Determine the limiting factors or bottlenecks that restrict the system's performance.

2. Exploiting Constraints: Allocate resources and efforts to maximize the output of the constraints.

3. Subordinating Other Processes: Ensure that non-constraints are synchronized with the constraints to prevent overproduction or waste.

4. Elevating Constraints: If the current constraints cannot be overcome, invest in improving or eliminating them.

5. Repeating the Process: Continuously reassess and adjust the system to adapt to changes and maintain optimal performance.

By applying TOC principles, system designers can create more resilient and efficient systems that deliver maximum value while minimizing waste and inefficiencies.

It's fascinating how our perspectives evolve over time, isn't it? Often, experiences beyond academics improve our understanding and applicability of knowledge. The insights gained from revisiting book reflected not only professional world but also its farfetched application which might be very tiny compared to system design examples where we were discussing system architecture and data flow - I saw it extend beyond the digital realm to physical training, when during my morning PT session, I had a realisation: my core was acting as a bottleneck. Despite my initial confusion about my trainer's focus on leg exercises instead of directly addressing my core weakness, she explained that strengthening other areas first would ultimately enable me to tackle the core more effectively. And just because I slept holding TOC in hands - this funny application of point 3 from Theory of Constraints (TOC) above was enlightening.

#MidweekMusings

Reference: Theory of Constraints of Eliyahu M. Goldratt - Theory of Constraints Institute (tocinstitute.org)