Homonym: Bottleneck (Constraint)
A "bottleneck" refers to a point in a process where the flow of operations is restricted, leading to delays and reduced efficiency. This can occur in various contexts, such as manufacturing, software development, or traffic systems. When a bottleneck happens, it limits the overall capacity and performance of the entire system.
In a production line, for example, if one machine operates slower than the others, it creates a backlog of work. This situation can hinder productivity and increase costs. Identifying and addressing bottlenecks is crucial for optimizing processes and improving overall performance in any system, including supply chains and project management.