1. Describe Theory of Constraints (TOC) (Chapter 7 & The Goal). What is a constraint? Why is it important to find constraints? What does TOC say you should do with inventory? Give an example of a company that does or could use TOC.
2. Describe Lean Systems (Chapters 8). What is considered waste? What does Lean have to say about inventory and quality?
3. Continuing with the concepts from question #1, explain how TOC and Lean can be used in service organizations (or are they mainly systems used in manufacturing settings). Also, can these two systems be used simultaneously or are they mutually exclusive?
4. Explain a push system versus a pull system. What types of organizations tend to use each type of system? Would you describe Theory of Constraints as a push or a pull system? Explain.