Evolution of Eli Goldratt's Theories of Management: From Chicken Coops to the Theory of Constraints

Abstract

This note traces the evolution and broadening of Goldratt's thinking from his OPT finite-scheduling software to his theory of constraints. The note discusses the bottleneck thinking that Goldratt presented in his novel, The Goal, and his book, The Race. Excerpt UVA-OM-0680 THE EVOLUTION OF ELI GOLDRATT'S THEORIES OF MANAGEMENT: FROM CHICKEN COOPS TO THE THEORY OF CONSTRAINTS Eliyahu M. Goldratt completed a fascinating transformation over the last decade. He moved successfully from the realm of basic science (physics) and became an American managerial guru. As he evolved in his many roles, so did his managerial thinking. This paper traces the evolution and broadening of Goldratt's thinking as he moved from physics to the peddling of software to advocating a theory of management that he claimed would save western civilization from itself. Biography Eli Goldratt was a 42-year-old Israeli physicist turned management consultant and philosopher. He received his B.S. degree from Tel Aviv University and later completed his MS and PhD degrees at Bar-Ilan University. In addition to his notoriety as a business consultant, Goldratt held patents in areas ranging from medical devices to drip irrigation and temperature sensors. . . .