CAN THE BIG 3 OVERTAKE TOYOTA? — A STUDY BASED ON THE THEORY OF CONSTRAINTS

2007 ◽  
Vol 06 (02) ◽  
pp. 145-157 ◽  
Author(s):  
SIMON WU ◽  
SAMUEL WANG ◽  
MAURICIO F. BLOS ◽  
H. M. WEE
Keyword(s):  
Problem Solving ◽  
Coming Out ◽  
Optimal Solution ◽  
Complex Problem ◽  
Theory Of Constraints ◽  
Root Cause ◽  
Thinking Process ◽  
Core Problem ◽  
Current Reality

Purpose — The aim of this paper is to provide answers to two significant questions. The first question is "what is the comprehensive action for the Big 3 to overtake Toyota Company?" The second question is "Can TOC (Theory of Constraints) really deal with this kind of complicated problem effectively?" Design/methodology/approach — In order to address this question and come out with a reasonable answer, this study uses the Theory of Constraints to discover the root causes and countermeasures for the Big 3 to break through their paradigms. Findings — It is worthwhile to highlight that we have demonstrated that a sophisticated case in global competition of the motor market can provide solutions with only four TOC logic trees. Furthermore, it is interesting to note that the four TOC logic trees fit perfectly well with each of the four problem solving steps in two aspects: (1) It provides a shortcut through mirror imaging process and (2) It enhances the clarity of the thinking process. Research limitations/implications — However, there remains some issues open for further exploration: (1) How can we make sure that the appropriate core problem(s) or root cause(s) has been identified in CRT (Current Reality Tree) and it is indeed the most meaningful one? (2) How can we proceed from CRT to FRT (Future Reality Tree) & further from FRT to PT (Prerequisites Tree) more effectively? (3) How can we discover key obstacles from PT and how to develop action plans from TT (Transition Tree) smoothly? (4) How to refine and integrate these feasible solution sets coming out from TT into the optimal solution scheme to be adapted in the real world? Originality/value — This study demonstrates how TOC problem solving can help to solve the core problems and root causes of "can the Big 3 overtake Toyota?" It not only gives managerial insights for the Big 3 to break through their paradigms to fight back Toyota; but also identify how a complex problem beyond production field can be analyzed and dealt with effectively. Paper type–Case study paper.

scholarly journals Proses Berpikir Mahasiswa dalam Memecahkan Masalah Fungsi Pembangkit

2018 ◽  
Vol 3 (1) ◽  
pp. 29-39
Author(s):  
Ninik Mutianingsih ◽  
Lydia Lia Prayitno ◽  
Agus Prasetyo Kurniawan
Keyword(s):  
Problem Solving ◽  
Generating Function ◽  
Procedural Knowledge ◽  
Think Aloud ◽  
Thinking Process ◽  
Low Ability

This study aims to describe students’ thinking process in solving the problems of generating function. This is a case study that classifies students into three categories: high, medium, and low. Subjects were asked to solve the problems then use think aloud to reveal their thinking process. The results show that in understanding the problem, using conceptual and procedural knowledge related to the problems, strategies, and experiences they have in solving similar problems between the three subjects is different. Subjects with high and medium capability are able to reveal the problem-solving component of Polya in detail, whereas low-ability subjects use only some of the problem-solving components of Polya.

Decision-making approach for complex problems management in a scarce human resources environment

2021 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Marcilio Andrade ◽  
Dermeval Carinhana Jr
Keyword(s):  
Decision Making ◽  
Human Resources ◽  
Theoretical Perspective ◽  
Optimal Solution ◽  
Complex Problem ◽  
Theory Of Constraints ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Physical Constraints ◽  
Complex Problems ◽  
The Relationship

Purpose This purpose of this study is to structure complex problems to be solved with greater efficiency, optimising the relationship between root causes (RC) relevance of the problem and utilisation of human resources to treat them, minimising the use of manpower in problem-solving activity and thus contributing to greater productivity within organisations. Design/methodology/approach The authors built an approach under the concepts of theory of constraints and multiattribute and multiobjective decision-making methods that were applied in a real complex problem of the low development of Brazilian space industry, by theoretical perspective. Also, the authors submitted it in a simulation environment to assess in which situations it is successful considering number of problem’s RC, system complexity and number of people in the system. Findings The approach was successful on the real case, finding the optimal relationship between the RC relevance and the number of people involved to treat them. For certain complex problem inputs configurations, simulation results reveal that the approach is reliable obtaining more than 95% chance of success in finding the optimal relationship, when comparing with traditional prioritising methods. Originality/value This approach introduces an unprecedented way to locate and evaluate non-physical constraints within a system, which is used to determine RC relevance, as well as an unprecedented way of defining a single optimal solution for structuring a problem, considering the relevance of RC and the use of human resources. The approach is useful for organisations in general which often need managing complex problems with few resources.

Knowledge Logistics as an Intelligent Service for Healthcare

2005 ◽  
Vol 44 (02) ◽  
pp. 262-264 ◽  
Author(s):  
M. Pashkin ◽  
N. Chilov ◽  
T. Levashova ◽  
A. Krizhanovsky ◽  
A. Smirnov
Keyword(s):  
Problem Solving ◽  
Feasible Solution ◽  
Complex Problem ◽  
Complex Problem Solving ◽  
Semantic Grid ◽  
Constraint Networks ◽  
Logic Module ◽  
Time Minimization ◽  
Insufficient Knowledge

Summary Objectives: The technology of grid services is developing fast. This paper presents an approach to the implementation of an intelligent grid service that configures a hospital taking advantage of the knowledge logistics idea. Methods: The presented approach is based on synergistic integration of knowledge acquired from distributed sources in order to obtain new or complement insufficient knowledge. Presented approach uses ontologies and the formalism of object-oriented constraint networks for knowledge representation and applies ILOG to constraint-based problem solving. Results: The application of the approach is illustrated via a decision support system for a fictitious case study of a hospital configuration in the Binni region. The system showed the ability to produce interrelated solutions for subtasks of the hospital configuration task based on the built ontology and input parameters. Besides, such preferences as cost or time minimization are also considered by the implemented fuzzy logic module that finds a feasible solution. Conclusions: KL would benefit from the grid, and particularly from the concept of a semantic grid. The scalable architecture of the approach enables its extension with regard to knowledge/information sources number and, thereby, with regard to factors taken into account during complex problem solving. Utilizing ontologies allows integration of the approach into existing processes and facilitates knowledge sharing with similar systems. Application of constraint networks allows rapid problem manipulation and usage of such existing efficient technologies as ILOG.

Iterative problem solving in teams: insights from an agent-based simulation

2016 ◽  
Vol 22 (1/2) ◽  
pp. 2-21 ◽  
Author(s):  
Aleksey Martynov ◽  
Dina Abdelzaher
Keyword(s):  
Problem Solving ◽  
Majority Rule ◽  
Optimal Solution ◽  
Complex Problem ◽  
Practical Significance ◽  
Problem Complexity ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Agent Based ◽  
Model Complex ◽  
Agent Based Simulations

Purpose – This paper aims to evaluate the effect of knowledge overlap, search width and problem complexity on the quality of problem-solving in teams that use the majority rule to aggregate heterogeneous knowledge of the team members. Design/methodology/approach – The paper uses agent-based simulations to model iterative problem-solving by teams. The simulation results are analyzed using linear regressions to show the interactions among the variables in the model. Findings – We find that knowledge overlap, search width and problem complexity interact to jointly impact the optimal solution in the iterative problem-solving process of teams using majority rule decisions. Interestingly, we find that more complex problems require less knowledge overlap. Search width and knowledge overlap act as substitutes, weakening each other’s performance effects. Research limitations/implications – The results suggest that team performance in iterative problem-solving depends on interactions among knowledge overlap, search width and problem complexity which need to be jointly examined to reflect realistic team dynamics. Practical implications – The findings suggest that team formation and the choice of a search strategy should be aligned with problem complexity. Originality/value – This paper contributes to the literature on problem-solving in teams. It is the first attempt to use agent-based simulations to model complex problem-solving in teams. The results have both theoretical and practical significance.

An integrated TRIZ approach for technological process and product innovation

2015 ◽  
Vol 231 (6) ◽  
pp. 1062-1077 ◽  
Author(s):  
Miao Li ◽  
Xinguo Ming ◽  
Maokuan Zheng ◽  
Lina He ◽  
Zhitao Xu
Keyword(s):  
Problem Solving ◽  
Technological Process ◽  
Manufacturing Process ◽  
Product Innovation ◽  
Interaction Matrix ◽  
Function Model ◽  
Manufacturing Defects ◽  
Root Cause ◽  
Innovative Solution

Process trimming (also can be called as trimming for process) helps to trim and eliminate process operations by redistributing their functions among other operations. It offers one way to eliminate key disadvantages in product and manufacturing process that other methods do not see. However, few methods have been disclosed in a structured way for process trimming effectively. Therefore, this article proposes an integrated process focused on technological process and product innovation to solve the key problems with process trimming-based TRIZ (theory of inventive problem-solving) approach. This method helps to identify and inventively solve the key problems and maximize use resource of system and supersystem. First, process trimming candidates are identified based on component function model, component trimming rules, process function model analysis, component–process interaction matrix, and root cause analysis. Then, three types of process trimming strategies are presented. Algorithm of process trimming is developed to identify key problems in technological process. TRIZ problem-solving tools are used to solve these key problems. Finally, a case study of refrigerator door foam innovative design and manufacturing process is investigated to test the efficiency of the approach. The innovative solution significantly decreases manufacturing defects and service cost.

scholarly journals Decomposition and Reduction: General Problem-Solving Paradigms

VLSI Design ◽  
1995 ◽  
Vol 3 (3-4) ◽  
pp. 359-371 ◽  
Author(s):  
Michal Servít ◽  
Jan Zamazal
Keyword(s):  
Problem Solving ◽  
General Problem ◽  
Optimal Solution ◽  
Covering Problem ◽  
Problem Instance ◽  
General Schema ◽  
Special Case

In this article we will be discussing the utilization of decomposition and reduction for development of algorithms. We will assume that a given problem instance can be somehow broken up into two smaller instances that can be solved separately. As a special case of decomposition we will define a reduction, i.e. such a decomposition that one of the resulting instances is trivial. We will define several versions of decomposition and reduction in a hierarchical way. Different kinds will be distinguished by their ability to preserve an optimal solution of the original instance. General schema of an algorithm utilizing the proposed notions will be introduced and a case-study demonstrating the adaptation of this schema for the covering problem will be provided.

scholarly journals Beekeeping in Tanzania: why is beekeeping not commercially viable in Mvomero?

Afrika Focus ◽  
2018 ◽  
Vol 31 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Nicholaus B. Tutuba ◽  
Wim Vanhaverbeke
Keyword(s):  
Significant Contribution ◽  
Descriptive Analysis ◽  
Case Study Research ◽  
Poor Quality ◽  
Theory Of Constraints ◽  
Group Discussions ◽  
Production Methods ◽  
Honey Production ◽  
Thinking Process

Beekeeping is a long established economic activity in Tanzania. It contributes to the national economy by generating some US$ 19 million per annum and employing more than two million people. Beekeeping produces food and medicines, makes a significant contribution to bio-diversity, and encourages agricultural production through pollination. Moreover, more than 50% of Tanzania is covered by forests suitable for beekeeping. This potential is not fully exploited, and the sector is non-commercial. This study analyses the causes of the inability of rural Tanzanian beekeepers to establish commercially viable businesses. Using the case study research design, this qualitative study was conducted in the Mvomero district. Triangulation sampling techniques were used to select different beekeeping actors. Data was collected through interviews, focus group discussions, and observation. The descriptive analysis and ‘current tree reality’ of thinking process techniques were used to identify constraints that limit beekeepers from commercial- ising the sector. The challenges that are repeatedly cited as the main hindrances to the growth and development of beekeeping include over-reliance on traditional hives and honey production methods, low volumes, poor quality honey, limited access to finance, and insufficient fodder. We conclude that insufficient beekeeping expertise (knowledge and skills) and management are the two critical underlying factors that have led to the current situation. Since this study was limited to answering the first question of the theory of constraints approach, a further study is suggested to answer the remaining two questions. Moreover, a study to assess obstacles that hinder the adop- tion of top bar hives in the area is vitally important. Key words: beekeeping, commercial beekeeping, theory of constraints, beekeeping constraints, Tanzania

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