There are two basic types of constraints: physical and non-physical constraints. A physical constraint is something that is rigid and in its current state, has a limit on its ability or throughput. An example of a physical constraint is a motor that can only produce a given amount of power at a given RPM. A non-physical constraint is demand for a given product. Company procedures are another example of a non-physical constraint.

There are five steps in the Versatile TOC process that begin with identifying the constraint. In situations when the constraint is not easily identified, Versatile TOC introduces brainstorming and root cause analysis activities to identify the core problem. Once identified, Wyle can help organizations decide how to get the maximum performance out of the constraint in its current configuration. Everything is subordinated to this decision. Next, it is necessary to elevate the constraint to expand or open the constraint’s capacity. Once accomplished, Versatile Lean goes back to step one, without overlooking any area that has been changed or modified. The benefits from a Versatile Lean program are continuous because the process is continually evaluated.

Versatile Asset Management System (VAMS) -- An analytical process used to identify the most effective and efficient application of asset management tools - Lean, Theory of Constraints, Six Sigma and Reliability Centered Maintenance, for transitioning from a current state of operation to a defined future state. VAMS begins with the development of a Value Stream Map (VSM) which shows the flow through the process with specific metrics such as availability, quality and capacity identified for each step along the way. The VSM is followed with a process mapping exercise where operators and maintainers are queried to find out what is really going on at the operator level. Once the process is diagrammed and mapped, a process level failure modes and effects analysis and root-cause analysis is developed which forms the foundation of the VAMS analysis. Each tool is reviewed and applied to each failure mode that will best resolve the identified failure.

With Versatile Asset Management System (VAMS), Wyle teams with your professionals to demolish your most challenging performance barriers. The result is a comprehensive plan of action for the integration and application of industry’s best asset management tools required to effectively improve overall asset utilization for your organization.

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