Answer to Question #180429 in Management for Thembi Khoza

Question

Critically discuss how a modern ‘theory’ on constraint management can help solve the management of slack time on sensitive resource-limited projects.

Answer 1

The modern theory of constraint management will help to solve the slack time issues like delayed projects, latest finish, etc. As per the theory, there are 5 major steps that are:

1. Identifying the constraint of slack time by understanding why the slack time is happening. Sometimes slack happens due to improper management of resources or labor. Sometimes slack is due to slow work processes and less knack for accomplishing tasks.

2. Exploit the constraint by discussing with the project team, how the identified issues can be solved by leveraging the existing resources in the best possible way. Activities that are beating estimated time completions must be re-assessed with the process and knowledge used there. Generate ideas to complete tasks in an efficient way and reduce slack.

3. Subordinate and also synchronize it with other project tasks and goals. The constraint of slack and its resolved way of dealing with the tasks must be examined carefully. It should be reviewed that the constraint of slack time is in accordance with the completion of the project to prevent delays.

4. Elevation or minimizing the root cause of constraint, to see even after taking so many measures, the slack time is occurring and certain activities are still beating estimation times. At that time new resources can be added, or new process tactics can be brought, or certain elements from the work process can be eliminated.

5. Repetition of the above steps mentioned until and unless the project slack is completely balanced and managed in a proper way. Finally, the project must have no delayed completion.