Lean Graph Theory: Modeling Organizational Operations

This article explores using path graphs, directed acyclic graphs (DAGs), and network graphs to understand and improve organizational operations, especially in rapidly scaling tech companies. The author argues that different company types at different stages of development face unique challenges and require different models to address them. Using a product launch lifecycle as an example, the article illustrates the application scenarios and interplay of the three models, emphasizing the varied application of "Lean" principles across them. The conclusion highlights a shift from path and DAG models to more network-graph-centric models as companies grow to manage complex structures and collaborations.