The Goal, A Process of Ongoing Improvement

I have just completed reading the book The Goal: A Process of Ongoing Improvement. This is one of the greatest books that I have read. The book is an enjoyable easy read. I felt like reading a novel rather than a management book and I just couldn't put it down.

It's a truly inspiring book which is about the principles of manufacturing. It's generally about people trying to understand what makes their world a better place so that they can make life more fulfilling.

The main character is Alex Rogo, a plant manager who is struggling to improve his mounting manufacturing plant problems. His factory is rapidly heading for disaster and his marriage is on the rocks due to his long work hours. He has 3 months to save his plant or face closure. It takes a chance encountering with a physics professor from student days-Jonah (Goldratt himself)-to help him break out of conventional ways of thinking to see what needs to be done. These cascade somehow turn into answers that help Alex and his team of managers to transform the plant from the biggest loser in the company to the most profitable one.

The intriguing story is full of twists and turns. This book teaches on how to resolve matters when in need to improve processes, problem solving and managing work-life balance.

I'd highly recommend this book especially to all who are working in a manufacturing environment.