Value-stream mapping
Value Stream Mapping is a Lean technique used to analyse the flow of materials and information currently required to bring a product or service to a consumer. At Toyota, where the technique originated, it is known as "Material and Information Flow Mapping" [1].
Process
- Identify the target product, product family, or service.
- Draw a current state value stream map, which is the current steps, delays, and information flows required to deliver the target product or service. This may be a production flow (raw materials to consumer) or a design flow (concept to launch).
- Assess the current state value stream map in terms of creating flow by eliminating waste.
- Draw a future state value stream map.
- Implement the future state.
Where is it used?
Value Stream Mapping is commonly used in Lean environments to identify opportunities for continuous improvement.
Although Value Stream Mapping is often associated with manufacturing, it is also used in logistics, supply chain, service related industries, software development, and product development.
Hand drawn versus tools
Value stream maps are usually drawn by hand in pencil to keep the mapping process simple and allow for simple correction. The idea is that a map can be drawn without delay while observing the target process in situ.
However, software tools are emerging as an alternative. A variety are available either as stand alone products or stencils/add-ons to products such as Microsoft Visio. Microsoft added value stream mapping tools with the release of Visio 2007.
Associated analysis methods
Hines and Rich (1997) defined seven Value Stream Mapping tools[2] they are:
1 Process Activity Mapping
2 Supply Chain Responsiveness Matrix
3 Product Variety Funnel
4 Quality filter mapping
5 Forrester effect mapping
6 Decision point analysis
7 Overall Structure Maps
External links
Value Stream Mapping Case Studies
Value Stream Mapping How to guide