Value Stream Mapping

• Value Stream Mapping (VSM) is a lean manufacturing tool that is used to analyze and improve the flow of materials, products, and information through a production process.

  • Value stream mapping is a visual tool that helps manufacturers to identify waste and inefficiencies in the production process, and to develop solutions to eliminate these issues.

• The value stream map is a visual representation of the entire production process, from raw materials to finished products, that identifies each step in the process and the flow of materials, products, and information between each step.

  • The value stream map also includes information on the time required to complete each step, the inventory levels at each step, and the number of defects or rework that occur at each step.

• The goal of value stream mapping is to identify areas of waste and inefficiency in the production process and to develop solutions to eliminate these issues.

  • This may involve reducing setup times, improving the flow of materials and products, or reducing inventory levels, among other strategies.

• Value stream mapping is an important tool for continuous improvement in lean manufacturing, as it helps manufacturers to identify opportunities for improvement and to develop targeted solutions to improve the overall efficiency and effectiveness of the production process.

  • By optimizing the value stream, manufacturers can reduce costs, improve quality, and increase customer satisfaction, while eliminating waste and improving the overall efficiency of the production process.

VSM Symbols/Layout

• The simplest way to create a value stream map of a process is to follow these steps:

  1. Map the Current Process Steps: First, create a simple flowchart or diagram that shows all the steps in the process, from start to finish. Identify the inputs and outputs for each step, and note any key performance metrics, such as cycle time or processing time.

  2. Identify VA & NVA Steps: Review the process map and identify which steps add value to the final product or service, and which steps do not add value but are necessary for the process to function. Non-value-added steps are considered waste, and should be targeted for elimination or reduction.

  3. Calculate KPI's: Calculate key metrics for each step in the process, such as processing time, cycle time, and lead time. This will help to identify areas of inefficiency and waste, and to develop targeted solutions to improve the process.

  4. Identify Improvement Opportunities: Review the value stream map and identify opportunities to eliminate waste, reduce lead times, and improve the overall efficiency of the process. This may involve reducing setup times, improving the flow of materials and products, or reducing inventory levels, among other strategies.

• By following these steps, you can create a simple value stream map of a process that can be used to identify opportunities for improvement and to develop targeted solutions to eliminate waste and improve efficiency.

• Once a Current-State VSM has been made & analyzed, Future-State and Ideal-State VSM's can be created to serve as targets for improvement.