Module 7 · Lesson 7 of 24
Flow, bottlenecks, and constraints
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Learning objectives
- Explain the purpose of flow, bottlenecks, and constraints in garment operations.
- Describe when and how to apply flow, bottlenecks, and constraints on the shop floor.
- Identify common mistakes and how to avoid them.
Core idea
Flow moves work continuously; a bottleneck limits local capacity, while the system constraint governs total throughput.
Method
Measure demand, cycle times, queues, availability, and blocking/starving; protect the true constraint and improve whole-system flow. Avoid maximizing every station independently.
Garment-factory example
A sleeve-setting operation may build WIP, but cutting release or finishing capacity may constrain the complete order.
Method
- Measure demand, cycle times, queues, availability, and blocking/starving;
- protect the true constraint and improve whole-system flow
Common mistakes
- Avoid maximizing every station independently
Knowledge check
Pick one answer per question. Explanations appear after you submit.
1. Which statement best captures the core idea of Flow, bottlenecks, and constraints?
2. A common mistake when applying flow, bottlenecks, and constraints is to:
Author: NOSK.life · Last reviewed: 2026-07-21