Critical Chain

Why does Isaac Levy pick Mark, Ruth, and Fred for the think tank? Using evidence from the text, explain how each character complements or contrasts each other. What is the role of each character in the think tank, and how do their different personalities contribute to their success?

Jim and the other professors praise Richard for teaching using open discussion. What are the benefits of open discussion? Where in the text does open discussion provide new solutions, and how does open discussion foster innovative thinking? When Jim notes that it is hard to teach using Richard’s method, what evidence from the text can be used to support his feeling?

There are several students in Richard’s class who contribute to the class discussions. Did any of these characters resonate with you as a reader? What questions do they ask, or comments do they make that help enhance Goldratt’s explanation of TOC or CCPM?

Johnny and Richard seem to approach their fields with different mindsets. What about Johnny does Richard dislike? How are Johnny and Richard both necessary for the innovation of Richard’s class? What can be learned from the conflicts between Johnny, Richard, and Charlene?

TOC was originally focused on a production setting, and Critical Chain tries to adapt TOC to project management. Is Goldratt successful? What elements of TOC prove valuable in project management, and how do those elements translate into a project-focused environment?

B. J. struggles with her role as a university president precisely because of a contradiction in her characterization. What is this contradiction? Explore how other characters view B. J., and contrast that with how B. J. sees herself. Why is her character important to the overarching narrative of the novel?

Richard struggles to publish, and it seems that this struggle is the result of his reluctance to use mathematics in his research. How does the novel downplay the importance of calculations? Where are calculations important, and why are those calculations needed in project management?

Roger doubts Richard’s abilities until Richard helps negotiations with vendors. How does Richard approach negotiations? How does Johnny help Richard, and how does Richard help the vendor? In considering other conflicts in the novel, could these same tactics be used to resolve the conflict?