Full paper
Full paper

Reframing the Product Mix Problem using the Theory of Constraints

John Davies

Vicky Mabin


This paper builds on prior work examining pedagogical strategies for the teaching of OR/MS. In particular, the authors focus on the use of framing as a pedagogical meta-framework and extend the repertoire of frames in use presented elsewhere. The purpose of framing and reframing is to improve the understanding of problems and problematic situations by providing a means of developing and synthesising multiple perspectives. Reframing also facilitates recognition and understanding of the potential biases inherent in any particular frame. This paper extends discussion of a product-mix case for which the authors had previously outlined several frames commonly used in traditional OR/MS analysis. The paper presents five further frames that draw on Goldratt's Theory of Constraints methodology and on lessons learnt from use of the case study. The paper concludes with a discussion of the effects of the different frames, the strengths and weaknesses of each, and the advantages of multiple frames.