The TLS Continuum Field Guide: How Theory of Constraints, Lean, and Six Sigma Will Transform Your Operations and Process Flow

The TLS Continuum methodology is a powerful technique for reducing waste and accelerating flow within a process. It consists of three components: Theory of Constraints (TOC), Lean, and Six Sigma. TOC is a thinking-based system for determining where the obstacles lie within an organization, while Lean is centered around removing waste from processes to expedite the customer order process. Six Sigma aims to remove variation from processes. By combining these three letters, the TLS continuum is organized around a process and uses TOC to locate and identify obstacles, Lean to remove them, and Six Sigma to create a standard of work and remove any variation from the process. This is an evidence-based effort to identify, remove, and improve the system so the problem does not recur.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 242 pages
Publication date: 02 January 2024
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This book offers a comprehensive guide for implementing a highly effective technique known as the TLS Continuum methodology, which aims to reduce waste and enhance flow within any process. The TLS Continuum is comprised of three essential components: Theory of Constraints (TOC), Lean, and Six Sigma.

The letter T in the TLS Continuum represents the Theory of Constraints, a critical thinking-based system developed by Dr. Eliyahu Goldratt in his book "The Goal." It serves as a framework for identifying the obstacles within an organization. By employing various tools, TOC encourages individuals to pinpoint the areas where bottlenecks and constraints exist within the process. The primary objective of TOC's involvement in the continuum is to determine what needs to be changed, how to change it effectively, and how to achieve the desired transformation. TOC operates at the chain level, seeking out the weakest link, which is essentially the hypothesis underlying the problem-solving method as a whole.

The letter L in the TLS Continuum stands for Lean, a concept that many organizations are already familiar with. It revolves around the elimination of waste from organizational processes, with the ultimate goal of delivering customer orders faster. It's important to note that faster delivery does not necessarily equate to cheaper or better quality; rather, it focuses on expediting the process.

The final letter in the TLS Continuum is S, representing Six Sigma. The primary objective of Six Sigma is to remove variation from processes. By combining the three letters of the acronym, we discover that the TLS continuum is structured around a self-contained process. We utilize the Theory of Constraints to locate and identify the obstacles within the system. What factors are impeding the progress of the process? Where is the weakest link in the system? With the introduction of TOC, the system prompts us to elevate the obstacles and explore ways to remove them.

Incorporating Lean principles into the TLS Continuum allows us to fulfill the intended purpose of Lean, which is to remove the obstacles that hinder progress. By identifying and eliminating waste, we streamline the roadblocks and facilitate a smoother flow of activities. Through the combined application of TOC, Lean, and Six Sigma, organizations can achieve significant improvements in efficiency, productivity, and overall process optimization. This comprehensive approach enables them to streamline their operations, reduce waste, and deliver superior value to their customers.

Dimension: 254 x 178 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367139155