| Crises, in terms of time and financial pressures are occurring with increased frequency. Traditional crisis management methods tend to be reactionary, ad hoc and narrowly focused on short term cost reduction without establishing where best to start or allowing for interactive effects of change. This research provides a systematic method for developing productivity improvement targets which address crises while providing for the long term view. Theoretical development builds on the work of Goldratt, Ackoff and Nadler, and incorporates aspects of product design.; The systematic approach developed provides a means to prioritize sub-systems for analysis and change, while considering the context of the crisis. Key to the research is the thesis that where to start is critical. Constraints the nature of the changes are reduced, providing for more creative options in dealing with crises.; It was also determined that in crisis situations, success is often contingent on the willingness and ability of management to take charge and develop feasible alternatives.; Two case studies were successfully completed to illustrate the effectiveness of the process which was developed in the research. |
