53 pages • 1 hour read
The Goal
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Book Brief
362
Novel • Fiction
1980s
1984
North River Press
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
In The Goal by Eliyahu M. Goldratt, Alex Rogo, a plant manager facing potential plant closure due to inefficiency, seeks help from his former professor, Jonah. Through Jonah's guidance, Alex learns to identify and manage bottlenecks, improves his plant's performance using the Theory of Constraints, and navigates personal struggles to achieve professional success and personal reconciliation.
Informative
Challenging
Inspirational
Contemplative
Reviews & Readership
84,722 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
The Goal by Eliyahu M. Goldratt is lauded for its engaging narrative approach to complex business concepts, making operations management accessible and practical. Critics appreciate the clear illustration of the Theory of Constraints but note that its storytelling style may not appeal to all readers. Overall, it effectively blends education with entertainment.
Who Should Read The Goal?
Readers who relish The Goal by Eliyahu M. Goldratt often have keen interests in business operations, process improvement, and the Theory of Constraints. Comparable titles include The Toyota Way by Jeffrey Liker and Lean Thinking by James P. Womack and Daniel T. Jones, which also explore efficiency and organizational excellence.
84,722 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Julie Rogo
Julie Rogo
Alex's wife, who experiences loneliness and frustration due to Alex's demanding work schedule and lack of attention to the family.
Bill Peach
Bill Peach
The vice president at UniCo and Alex's boss, who pressures Alex to improve the performance of his plant or face consequences.
Hilton Smyth
Hilton Smyth
A productivity manager at UniCo and Alex's coworker, who opposes Alex's unconventional management approaches and creates tension.
Jonah
Jonah
A scientist and Alex’s mentor, providing guidance on business management with his methodical and Socratic approach.
Bob Donovan
Bob Donovan
The plant's product manager known for his straightforward manner and willingness to adapt to new productivity strategies.
Lou
Lou
The plant controller who is initially resistant but eventually supportive of the changes in management philosophy.
Stacey
Stacey
A member of Alex’s team who manages inventory control and is open to adopting new methods for the plant’s success.
Ralph Nakamura
Ralph Nakamura
The data processing expert on Alex’s team, providing critical information and insights for decision-making at the plant.
362
Novel • Fiction
1980s
1984
North River Press
Adult
18+ years
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