Value Stream Map Basics
A Value Stream Map illustrates every element of a process, which makes it the primary process design tool. It’s best used for insight into a current process, and to identify areas for improvement. It works equally well for large scale workflows, and small tasks. Since it’s a visual tool it improves the thoroughness of communication among team members.
The Value Stream Map is made up of sections, they are: problems and opportunities, communication networks, how work is done, location, team size and throughput, and a timeline. Each section is powerful enough to be a tool by it’s self.
A Value Steam Map has some limitations to be aware of. The map is a single snapshot of a process, similar to a photograph. Trying to account for different scenarios on one map will make it less actionable. To work around this, a separate map should be made for each product type or scenario. Some products can be grouped on one map if they are similar enough and have the same issues, there is room for discretion.
Two maps should be made: a current state map and a future state map. One map for where you are, and one for where you hope to be. The areas to improve between the two maps become your projects.
Each section of the map can inform, or become, a Key Performance Indicator. The most common Key Performance Indicators are quality – represented on the workflow section, time – represented by the timeline, and productivity – represented in the team size and throughput section.
Our ultimate goal is to increase value and reduce effort and cost. The Value Stream Map illustrates how we create value, which makes it a vital tool.
