Theory of Constraints in Software Engineering

Theory of Constraints (TOC) is a methodology invented by Dr. Eliyahu M. Goldratt, a scientist, physicist, author, educator and consultant [3]. With the methodology the most important limiting factor, that hinders a goal to be achieved, is identified and then that factor (i.e. constraint) is improved until it is no longer the limiting factor. Since Goldratt introduced the Theory of Constraints in his bestselling 1984 novel, “The Goal”, the methodology has continued to evolve and develop into many different fields including Software Engineering. [2] The goals of Software Engineering is the creation of software systems that meet the needs of customers and are efficient, maintainable and reliable in addition the systems should meet project schedules and budgets along with being produced in an economical way [1, bls 21]. Applying analogous set of approaches to the development of software, one can expect the production of software that meets the goals of Software Engineering [1, bls 22]. This article will introduce how Theory of Constraints can be used in Software Engineering along with guidance to apply the methodology.