I have found that Goldratt's Theory of Constraints can be used quite effectively in determining the next thing to work on in nearly every aspect of decision making and management. This Intel article details a straightforward technique for addressing bottlenecks, and shows that the discipline this approach requires fits well with software optimization: " a process of continuous improvement which focuses on the idea that in any complex system, there is usually one aspect of that system that limits its ability to achieve its goal.