Value Stream Mapping

Course Outline:

1. Understand Value Stream Mapping Concepts 

Gain a comprehensive understanding of VSM, its principles, and its role in  process improvement and lean management. 

2. Develop Skills to Create Value Stream Maps 

Learn how to create current state and future state value stream maps,  identifying areas of waste and opportunities for improvement. 

3. Analyze and Interpret Value Stream Maps 

Develop the ability to analyze value stream maps to identify bottlenecks,  inefficiencies, and areas for process enhancement. 

4. Implement Improvement Strategies 

Learn how to develop and implement action plans based on value stream  map analysis to optimize processes and enhance value delivery. 

5. Sustain and Monitor Improvements 

Understand how to monitor the effectiveness of changes and sustain  improvements over time.

1: Introduction to Value Stream Mapping 

Overview of Value Stream Mapping 

Definition and purpose of VSM 

Training and Consulting the  American Workforce since 1990 

History and evolution of VSM in lean management 

Benefits of using VSM for process improvement 

• Key Concepts 

Value stream vs. process flow 

Types of value streams (e.g., product, information) 

2: Preparing for Value Stream Mapping 

• Defining the Scope 

Identifying the value stream to be mapped 

Setting goals and objectives for the mapping exercise 

• Gathering Data 

Collecting data and information necessary for mapping (e.g., process  steps, cycle times, inventory levels)

Creating the Current State Map 

• Mapping Process Steps 

Identifying and documenting each step in the value stream 

Using symbols and notations for VSM (e.g., process boxes, arrows,  inventory icons) 

• Capturing Metrics 

Documenting key metrics (e.g., lead time, processing time, waiting time)

Constructing the current state value stream map 

Analyzing the flow of materials and information 

4: Analyzing the Current State Map 

• Identifying Waste 

Recognizing different types of waste (e.g., overproduction, waiting,  transportation) 

Analyzing bottlenecks and inefficiencies 

• Root Cause Analysis 

Techniques for root cause analysis (e.g., 5 Whys, Fishbone Diagram) o Identifying the underlying causes of issues 

5: Designing the Future State Map 

• Envisioning Improvements 

Setting goals for the future state (e.g., reduced lead times, improved flow) o Identifying improvement opportunities and solutions 

• Creating the Future State Map 

Designing a future state map with proposed changes 

Incorporating lean tools and techniques (e.g., kanban, pull systems,  standardized work) 

6: Developing and Implementing Action Plans 

• Action Planning 

Developing action plans to transition from the current state to the future  state 

Assigning responsibilities and setting timelines 

• Implementing Changes

Communicating changes to stakeholders and training staff 

7: Monitoring and Sustaining Improvements 

• Monitoring Effectiveness 

Tracking key performance indicators (KPIs) to assess the impact of  changes 

Conducting follow-up reviews and audits 

• Sustaining Improvements 

Strategies for maintaining improvements over time 

Continuous improvement practices (e.g., regular value stream reviews,  employee involvement) 

8: Case Studies and Practical Exercises 

• Case Studies 

Analysis of real-world examples of value stream mapping and  improvements 

Lessons learned and best practices 

• Practical Exercises 

Hands-on activities to practice creating and analyzing value stream maps o Role-playing scenarios to apply VSM principles 

9: Review and Certification 

• Final Assessment 

Knowledge check through a written exam or practical assessment 

Certification –

Issuance of certificates upon successful completion of the course