Explore solutions by selecting your industry

Industries

ThroughputX

Elevating the performance of value chains using the Probabilistic Theory of Constraints (defining a small number of constraint)

ThroughputX

Elevating the performance of value chains using probabilistic Theory of Constraints

ThroughputX is a three-step analytical solution that helps analyze and manage variability in value chains.

Operators and manufacturers in the heavy industry usually leverage lean principles and the Theory of Constraints to optimize value chains, remove bottlenecks, manage capacities and reduce inventory. However, this approach is not suited to nonlinear systems with complex interdependencies and high variability.

In some industries, the approach does not consider real-world variability from changing parameters (e.g., geology, source grade, weather conditions, equipment availability, human behavior). As a result, operators often miss their production targets leading to underutilized equipment and machinery because of feed starvation.

Analytics can help better manage operations and reach the full potential of value chains.

Check out a demo

ThroughputX helps manage operations better to unlock the full potential of value chains in non-linear systems with complex interdependencies and high variability.

ThroughputX has delivered

10–15%

uplift of average throughput

~50%

reduction in production variability

~10%

reduction in specific unit cost

>95%

achievement of production plan

Our approach

ThroughputX improves the performance of complex value chains prone to variability in 3 steps:

1. Analyze the system performance with a digital twin

Build a digital twin​ of the integrated value chain using advanced analytics and dynamic simulation​ modeling to replicate the behavior of different system elements (e.g., trains, silos, shovels, trucks, crushers) and understand how variability impacts the value chain.

Click thumbnails to expand

The digital twin represents actual system behaviour with 95–98% accuracy

2. Optimize the value chain

Deploy a probabilistic Theory of Constraints methodology​ to develop and test various configurations in the digital twin and define the optimal buffer levels and process improvements to build resilience.

Click thumbnails to expand

Optimized scenarios are tested in multiple simulation runs to get to the optimal configuration against a set target

3. Develop a management system

Develop variability management plans​ which describe actions to take when buffer levels fall outside the predefined limits​ or when unexpected process interruptions occur.

Click thumbnails to expand

Action plans for operators are developed to manage system back into a self regulating equilibrium

What the product looks like

Running different production scenarios, creating transparency on the system behavior and helping to understand the performance of the system against a plan (e.g., future production plans).

Click thumbnails to expand

Creating insights that enable quantifying the impact of changes to different value chain elements on overall system performance.

Click thumbnails to expand

Managing buffers and processes within healthy limits through variability management plans.

Click thumbnails to expand

Delivering impact globally

ThroughputX has been deployed in 20+ client cases​ globally, including 9 underground mines, 7 open-pit mines​, chemicals operations, automotive industry, and rail networks.

Testimonials from clients

“This tool would have made my life easier during my mine planning days.”

“We can use this tool to build business case, which was difficult previously.”

Examples of our work

ThroughputX helped client to understand impact of different dispatch strategy on downstream processes

Click thumbnails to expand

ThroughputX optimized the transshipment capacity and schedule for an operation with limited data availability

Click thumbnails to expand

An underground mine with multiple
mining methods used ThroughputX to identify an  opportunity to increase throughput by ~25%.

Click thumbnails to expand

A rail operator leveraged ThroughputX to determine the likelihood of meeting targets and identify bottlenecks in the system so they could proactively make decisions and achieve target levels.

Click thumbnails to expand

A mining company improved recovery by 0.15%-0.3% and throughput by 2% by stabilizing mill feed using ThroughputX.

Click thumbnails to expand

By working with us, you will have access to

Experts

Our industry and functional experts will be on the ground where and when you need them.

Helpdesk

Our helpdesk will keep doors open and commit to addressing your concerns efficiently and effectively.

Training

We offer coaching and build capabilities for your teams to deliver sustained improvements.

Implementation

We partner with you and co-create a firm path to implementation as part of the project.

Connect with us to find out more

© 1996-2023 McKinsey & Company