Value Stream Mapping (VSM) was clearly defined in the first post of this series, and the next one will list the steps involved in the value stream mapping process. How-ever, this post is concerned with providing six benefits of going through the VSM process in hopes that you would catch the vision and apply it to your organization.
1. Visualization
Going through the VSM process allows you to visualize the process from beginning to end. As you map out the process you will document the product flow and the information flow, which will give you the ability to see the flow of value as raw materials come in all the way through to the finished goods going out.
2. Waste Reduction
Once you see what is actually taking place as the product and information flows through the process, then you will start to see wasteful activities and bottlenecks. It is amazing the amount of waste that takes place in our processes that are costing us time and money. The VSM allows you to discover waste that has been hidden in plain sight, which provides you with the opportunity for improvements.
3. Increased Efficiency
As you uncover opportunities to reduce waste, you will simultaneously start to find opportunities to increase the efficiency of your process. A VSM determines a takt time, lead time, and cycle times between each point along the process. This allows you to see where value is or isn't being added, which will serve to maximize throughput and achieve your desired goals.
4. Cross-functional Collaboration
In order for the VSM activity to be successful, the organization will need to bring together cross-functional stakeholders who are involved in each stage of the process - operations, quality, maintenance, logistics, engineering, etc. There will need to be buy-in from all stakeholders in order to achieve the desired goals of the organization. VSM encourages and facilitates cross-functional collaboration.
5. Growth Mindset
By bringing all stakeholders together for the purpose of improving the process in order to continue to grow the business, you are creating a culture that is focused on a growth mindset. Once the VSM is complete and the initial improvements are made, you can use it as a reference point in the future as you pursue future improvements and growth within the organization.
6. Improved Quality
Since everyone within the organization desires to provide the best value to the customer, quality is always the most important factor. Therefore, all improvements made through the VSM process must hold the quality of the finished goods in highest regard. Making things faster is not the end goal, but rather, it is increasing efficiency and optimizing your process in order to bring the most value to the customer.
If you would like more information regarding Value Stream Mapping or would like to schedule a VSM session with RCI, please contact as at 423.521.5876 or spackett@thinkrci.com.