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Theory of Constraints (TOC) specialist Frank Patrick uses a recent CNET News article on employee unrest to demonstrate the unique nature of TOC, and how it addresses the very real needs we have, as employees, to feel a sense of significance in our work.
Unrest Among Tech Ranks. Unrest Among Tech Ranks -- CNET News.Com reports on a survey of 1,100 workers and 300 executives at medium and large companies across North America."The study, released last week, found that people relate to their work on a personal level, basing much of their satisfaction on whether their job provides them a sense of confidence or control over their destinies. "Employees are not apathetic or indifferent, as many suppose. In fact, people have very strong emotions about their work," researchers wrote. [...]
[...] "The study also found that managers underestimate the importance of many factors contributing to workplace satisfaction, including career development opportunities, rewards, challenging tasks and a sense of self-confidence."
[...] As one of the three canonical "necessary conditions" that are required for organizational success, "satisfaction and security of associates, now and in the future," this is a significant component of most TOC implementations. At the very least, bringing joy to the work, or at least the chance of enhancing the joy component, is something that I consciously strive to bring to every engagement in every organization with which I get involved.
And, fortunately, the toolset and mindset that I try to bring helps me considerably in this endeavor.
In my opinion, one of the key contributions of Goldratt's theory and it's supporting body of knowledge and applications is the integration of the "human and the humane" with the "logistical" aspects of management. [...] [Frank Patrick's Focused Performance Blog]
Frank goes on to explain just how TOC supports this business/human integration, and provides several supporting anecdotes. He also makes a useful ancillary point -- how his toolset and mindset provide a dual base for his practice.
As a solo practitioner Frank takes his project management and TOC expertise to a variety of companies, and the need for both a well-developed toolset and a proper mindset are crucial to success. I'm learning this in my own entrepreneurial efforts. Companies often hire you based on your toolset -- e.g. which popular methodology you use, or how much experience you have with a particular strategic framework. But they continue to work with you because of your mindset -- both how you manage your own efforts and how you position your efforts within their organization.
In the end, TOC may be one of the only frameworks that incorporates the right mindset as a fundamental element, making it one of the best toolset choices for independent practitioners in business strategy.
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