About this Presentation
The Theory of Constraints (ToC), introduced alongside other continuous improvement methodologies such as Lean and Six Sigma, has not achieved the same level of recognition and dissemination in the business and academic communities, despite its successful application across a wide range of scenarios. This presentation aims to identify and discuss potential ways to enhance the visibility and adoption of ToC among organizations so that it can add value and become a reliable operational management theory for managers seeking to leverage growth and sustainability for their companies. To achieve this, the presentation will use the ToC Thinking Process (TP) to better identify and understand the interrelations between main causes and effects, and to outline potential strategies for overcoming the challenges of ToC recognition and dissemination. Integrating ToC with other continuous improvement methodologies, such as Lean and Six Sigma, and utilizing ToC TP in strategic planning are among the strategies identified.
What Will You Learn
To help you get the most value from this session, we’ve highlighted a few key points. These takeaways capture the main ideas and practical insights from the presentation, making it easier for you to review, reflect, and apply what you’ve learned.
Theory of Constraint (TOC) can add increased value to operation management in organizations.
Integration of TOC with other operation management theories like Lean and Six Sigma can bring significant benefits.
TOC is a powerful tool to focus organizations and bring objectivity to other methodologies.
Instructor(s)
Alexandra B. Tenera
Alexandra Tenera is an Assistant Professor of Industrial Engineering at the NOVA School of Science and Technology and a UNIDEMI integrated researcher. She holds a Doctorate in Industrial Engineering with a focus on Management Systems from FCT NOVA (2006). Her dissertation on Critical Chain Project Management (CCPM) proposed and successfully tested the use of simulation to improve buffer sizes and project execution from a CCPM scheduling perspective in a Portuguese construction project.
Her Theory of Constraints (ToC) journey began with her PhD research and continued with support from AGI and Prochain. Her exploration and contributions to ToC extend into various domains, including manufacturing, the navy, and the electric power sectors. Her current research involves Integrated Continuous Improvement Management Systems, known as TLS (ToC, Lean Six Sigma), aimed at enhancing organizational results. Recently, she has also pursued research in Collaborative Management Networks for both industry and services.
She has supervised over 50 master’s dissertations, many of which involve ToC implementations in productive systems and project management environments, as well as two PhD theses in Industrial Engineering that integrate ToC knowledge.
Ms Alka Wadhwa
Alka Wadhwa is an experienced consultant and process improvement expert with over 24 years of expertise in the Theory of Constraints (TOC), Lean Six Sigma, and organizational performance optimization. She has successfully led projects in healthcare, financial services, and manufacturing, driving significant improvements such as a 67% boost in hospital operations and a 140% increase in outpatient visits.
Previously, Alka Wadhwa spent 17+ years at GE Global Research Center, where she led initiatives to enhance various GE businesses through advanced technologies, process redesign, and system optimization. Founder of Better Solutions Consulting, LLC, she specializes in using TOC, Six Sigma, and data analytics to streamline operations and build high-performance teams.
Her work has earned her multiple accolades, including the Empire State Award of Excellence in healthcare.
Rui M. F. Dias
Rui M.F. Dias is a professional with experience in Operations Management (Operations Management, Industrial Management, Quality and Environment Management, and Food Safety) in different industries, namely soft drink, food packaging, and bakery. Aligned with my professional growth, I have been developing my academic knowledge, having concluded a PhD in Industrial Engine