Changing Change

I continue to come across references to the theory of constraints; it's probably time I dive in and learn a little more about it. Today, Frank Patrick piqued my interest by addressing the theory of constraints' process of ongoing improvement -- or POOGI, but skip the acronyms. To whit:

• Identify the system's constraint.
• Decide how to best exploit the constraint.
• Subordinate everything else to the above strategy.
• Elevate the constraint.
• If, in a previous step, the constraint has been broken, go back to step 1. (Prevent inertia from becoming the system's constraint.)

Rooted in manufacturing, it seems to be a solid way to approach working around any limitation or lack of resources.