The Reality of Constraints

Clark Ching has found a great TOC quote for those that don't like to call it "theory." Call it "reality of constraints" instead.

We can choose to manage the constraints or choose to allow the constraints to manage us. Conversely we can choose to ignore the constraints, but rest assured that the constraints will not choose to ignore us. The constraints will dictate the way that our organization performs. In other words the constraints will impact upon us regardless of whether we know it or not, and we will also impact upon the constraints regardless of whether we know if or not. So it is best to know it, to acknowledge their reality."

Either do something about the elephant in your living room or ignore it. Either way, you are going to be left with something on the carpet. If you aren't prepared, that mess is going to start stinking.