Infobrokering Project Management in Line With the Theory of Constraints – a Case Study
Infobrokering Project Management in Line With the Theory of Constraints – a Case Study

Summary/Abstract: Purpose/Thesis: The paper aims to introduce practical applications of the Theory of Constraints (TOC), developed by the Israeli physicist Eliyahu M. Goldratt. Special attention is paid to the TOC-derived project management methodology called the Critical Chain Concept, seldom yet successfully applied in business practice. An attempt to have TOC implemented in the management of an infobrokering project is reported. Approach/Methods: Two methods were applied: (1) a critical review of the literature on the subject, (2) a case study for the purpose of which both a participatory and non-participatory observation was pursued, as well as a review and appraisal of the existing documentation reflecting the successive stages of the infobrokering project, along with an in-depth interview. Results and conclusions: The case study indicates that TOC, especially the critical chain concept, boasts an appreciable potential in optimising infobrokering projects, as it allows to: (1) expose the concealed, deep-rooted, and disadvantageous routines in project implementation, (2) identify the inherent constraints in the project, not so much in terms of embarrassing errors (blunders), but rather as the non-removable events/components, axiologically indifferent, yet requiring remedial measures, (3) realise that the factors routinely deemed conducive may in fact prove the actual constraints themselves, (4) enhance overall executive effectiveness by identifying and strengthening the weakest link in the project processes, (5) achieve improvements in the company’s performance without incurring significant expenditure. Originality/Value: There are no published Polish studies focusing strictly on TOC in terms of information science perspective. The present paper is meant to partially address this deficit with regard to the practice of infobrokering.

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