Value Stream Mapping

Value Stream Mapping is a powerful visualisation tool for mapping the complete manufacturing process from door-to-door, including both material and information flow. By drawing and analysing the ''current state map'', improvement activities can be focused in those areas which will result in the greatest benefits to process flow.

In addition to prioritising incremental improvements, Value Stream Mapping can be used as a strategic Continuous Improvement tool, by creating an ambitious future state based on Lean Manufacturing principles. This future state map forms the basis of a long-term improvement plan, which can be deployed within an organisation and its supply chain.


Course Content

Introduction to Value Stream Mapping
·Traditional approaches to improvement activities
·The concept of Value and Value Streams
·The benefits of Value Stream Mapping
·Selecting the Value Stream to be mapped

Drawing the Current State Map
·Preparing for the analysis
·Value Stream Mapping symbols and conventions
·Mapping material and information flow
·Value stream calculations
·The effect of Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE)
·Identifying key issues and improvement opportunities

Improving Process Flow
·The principles of Lean Thinking
·Introduction to flow manufacturing techniques
·The concepts of pull systems and one piece flow
·Kanban material control and material supermarkets
·Takt time and work balancing
·Standard operations and multi-skilling
·Managing and segregating complexity

Creating the Future State Map
·Creating a future state vision
·Improvement strategy and timescales
·Drawing the future state map
·Developing and monitoring the future state action plan

Worked Example Exercise
·Team based Value Stream Mapping exercise
·Examples and case studies

Course Review and Action Planning

30.11.06