Challenging the Theory of Constraints, William Levinson suggests that variation in processing and material transfer times can be eliminated through traditional quality management techniques. The author begins with an overview of TOC and its impact on engineering and managerial economies. He illustrates the effect of variation in processing and material transfer times and shows why it prevents achievement of 100 percent utilization. The book describes methods for reducing variation in processing and material transfer times and discusses methods for increasing productivity and reducing cycle times. Readers learn how to identify and remove variations and maximize capacity to achieve bottom-line results.