This tool aids in identifying limitations within a system or process. It pinpoints the stage that most severely restricts overall throughput or efficiency. For example, in a manufacturing line, a specific machine operating at a slower rate than others can represent such a constraint.
Determining these restrictions is crucial for optimizing performance. Addressing the identified impediment, such as by increasing its capacity or streamlining associated workflows, often leads to significant improvements in overall productivity. Historically, methods for locating these limitations were labor-intensive and relied on manual observation and data collection.
