The Theory of Constraints

The Theory of Constraints is a management theory developed by Dr. Eliyahu Goldratt. He discusses it in his popular book, The Goal.

The theory states that every system's output will be limited by it's weakest link.

For instance, if you're doing an exercise - say squats, the amount you can lift will be limited by the muscle that gives out first when trying to lift the weight.

In a building structural system, the integrity of the building is limited by the element that fails first.

In a business system, if you can identify the constraint, you can work to pro-actively fix it, improving the efficiency and output of the entire system.

This theory simplifies the improvement of your business - just find the weakest link, improve it, iterate, then find the next weakest link.

Recently on a trip to the beach I had an experience that reminded me of the theory of constraints.

My brother-in-law brought a fabric cooler he had gotten at Costco. The lid of the cooler is sealed shut with a zipper.

The zipper broke, and now the entire cooler is useless.

The cooler fell prey to the Theory of Constraints.

If the manufacturer had designed a sturdier zipper, the cooler would have lasted longer - and another part would have failed first.

What I'd have you consider today is what is the constraint in your business that is holding you back from getting the outcome you want?

Identify this constraint and fix it.

If you don't know how to fix it, consult with someone who does.

If you want help fixing the constraints in your architecture firm, apply for the DREAM Practice Accelerator. Go to https://www.businessofarchitecture.com/reviews to find out more.