TOCICO invites our members to submit proposals for new or improved knowledge in the Theory of Constraints (TOC).  We seek innovative contributions that enhance TOC theory, methodologies or applications, including novel applications in fields where TOC has not been previously applied.  Your submission could help shape the future of TOC and its impact on systems worldwide.

In the spirit of Dr. Goldratt's dissemination of TOC knowledge as public domain, a submission must not have any legal or other limitation in application.

To ensure clarity, rigor and relevance, all submissions must meet the following criteria:

1. Define the TOC Context

Provide a concise overview of the TOC area or application (e.g., production, project management, thinking processes or a new field), or its relevance to TOC's core principles, such as identifying and managing system constraints.

2. Define who will use the new knowledge and how it would be practically applied.

Which individuals or groups will use the new knowledge in the real world? Provide an example of its application.

3. Highlight Current Limitations

Summarize the existing TOC approach (or lack thereof in a new field) and identify specific problems, shortcomings or gaps.  Explain why improvement or application is needed, using logical or empirical evidence.

4. Propose the New Knowledge

Describe the new or improved TOC theory, methodology or application.  Provide a clear, logical rationale for how it addresses the identified limitations or introduces TOC to a new field, aligning with TOC principles (e.g., five focusing steps, thinking processes). Please explicitly mark or describe which element of your contribution represents the new knowledge (new theory, improved methodology or substantially new application).

5. Illustrate with Examples

Include a practical example or case study comparing:

• The current approach (or absence of TOC in a new field) and its limitations.
• The proposed approach, demonstrating how it resolves these issues without significant negative side effects.

6. Provide Supporting Evidence

Include relevant documentation, such as:

• References to TOC literature, case studies or related research (peer-reviewed or practitioner-based).
• Empirical data, simulations or logical arguments supporting the proposal.
• Presentations or other materials to clarify the submission.

7. Ensure Clear and Professional Presentation

Write in clear, objective and professional language, using TOC terminology accurately. Structure the submission logically and consider using TOC tools (e.g., Current Reality Tree, Future Reality Tree) for clarity. Submissions formatted using the Standing on the Shoulders of Giants process or The Six Questions of Technology process are encouraged but not mandatory. There is no minimum length requirement for your paper.  However, if it is large (e.g. over 30 pages), please submit an abstract so we can consider asking for the entire submission.

What Qualifies as New Knowledge?

New knowledge means that your contribution clearly provides at least one of the following: (a) new theory, (b) improved methodology or (c) substantially new application that reveals a new insight.

How to Submit

Please submit your proposal via our online portal below. Submissions will be reviewed by our panel of TOC experts for rigor, relevance and impact.

Join Us in Advancing TOC

Your insights can elevate the Theory of Constraints and its global applications.  We look forward to your contributions!