Eliyahu M. Goldratt ​

Eliyahu Moshe Goldratt was an Israeli business management guru. Known for his Theory of Constraints (TOC), he authored several business novels and non-fiction works, notably "The Goal", which has been recognized as one of the most influential business books ever written.

Quick Facts ​

• A physicist and an author of several business novels and non-fiction works.
• Developed several management concepts, most notably his Theory of Constraints.
• His book "The Goal" has been translated into 35 languages.
• His books have sold millions of copies worldwide.
• His work has had a significant influence on the management of systems and operations.

Background ​

Goldratt was born in 1947 to a Russian-Jewish family in Mandatory Palestine. He obtained his Bachelor's degree from Tel Aviv University, and later received his master's degree and doctorate from Bar-Ilan University. Initially, he worked as a physicist in one of Israel's largest companies but he turned to the field of management science. He is best known for his Theory of Constraints (TOC), which identifies the most important limiting factor that stands in the way of achieving a goal and systematically improves that constraint until it is no longer the limiting factor. He introduced new concepts in project management and supply chain management. His book, "The Goal", has been recognized as one of the best-selling business books of all time. He died in June 2011.

Writing Style and Impact ​

Goldratt is known for his unique writing style that combines elements of novel and non-fiction. He uses fictional stories to explain complex management and business concepts in a way that is engaging and easily understood by readers. His work radically changed the way that businesses operate and is seen as fundamental to modern operational management theory. His use of the Socratic Method, through his Theory of Constraints, has popularized the use of questioning as a means of problem-solving in business.

Notable Works ​

• The Goal (1984)
• It's Not Luck (1994)
• Critical Chain (1997)
• The Choice (2008)
• The Haystack Syndrome (1990)