Value stream mapping is a Lean activity focused on identifying areas of improvement in processes. A value stream map is a hand-drawn diagram of a workplace that shows the flow of materials moving through different areas. The map should have more information on it including how long tasks take and how often orders for materials are placed. There are many benefits of creating a holistic view of the entire current system including the ability to reduce waste and improving lead time.
The team at leanvlog.com put together this informative tutorial on value stream mapping. This video in particular is the first lesson in three-part lesson series. In this episode, you will learn the concepts of value stream mapping, the benefits of it, and how to start a map of your own. Check out the other videos in the series and you will be well prepared to draw your first value stream map!
Additional Resources
- Value Stream Mapping (VSM Analysis)– creativesafetysupply.com
- Understanding the Terms of Lean– leanworkplace.com
- Why is the root cause so important to Kaizen?– kaizenforums.com
- Leveraging 5S + Kaizen– kaizensystem.net
- How does 5S affect quality?– 5sforum.com
- What are Kanban Cards and how do they work?– kanbanforum.com
- Floor Tape for Workplace Organization– floormarkingpro.com
- Understanding Kanban vs. SCRUM– whatisengineering.org
- Where do I start with pipe marking?– pipemarking.net
