Untangling with Value Stream Mapping: How to Use VSM to Address Behavioral and Cultural Patterns and Quantify Waste in Multifunctional and Nonrepetitive Work Environments

Value stream mapping (VSM) is a powerful tool for improving processes in complex, multifunctional environments. This book provides a novel approach to capturing the information in a VSM by recognizing it as the place where most of the issues are generated. It helps to quantify waste, make disconnects visible, and make behavioral and cultural patterns visible. Following the steps outlined in the book can lead to lead time reductions ranging from 60% to 88%, increased availability of resources, more output with the same resources, projects delivered on time, and colleagues embracing the Lean mindset.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 198 pages
Publication date: 06 April 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

The conventional understanding in books about Lean initiatives and value stream mapping (VSM) is that VSM is most effective for transactional processes, which are predominantly linear operations with clearly defined handoffs and a known outcome. However, this book challenges these beliefs by showcasing how a VSM exercise can be successfully executed in complex, multifunctional environments involving nonrepetitive work, such as aircraft new product development, custom engineering, software development, and project management.

The methodology presented in this book has undergone over ten years of refinement, drawing from practical experience working with multidisciplinary teams and assisting them in achieving their objectives. This book offers a unique perspective on capturing information flow within a VSM by recognizing it as the primary source of issues, particularly in the aforementioned environments, where classical mapping methodologies, including classical VSM, fail to effectively capture it.

The VSM methodology developed by the author goes to the core of a VSM, focusing on activities flow, information flow, and timeline. It utilizes conventional VSM icons alongside custom information flow icons to facilitate the following:

Quantification of waste: Addressing a gap in VSM literature by providing a comprehensive approach to identifying and reducing waste within these complex environments.

Visibility of disconnects: Enabling the identification and resolution of gaps in communication and coordination, which are crucial for successful execution in multifunctional teams.

Illumination of behavioral and cultural patterns: Shedding light on the underlying behaviors and cultural factors that impact the efficiency and effectiveness of processes, facilitating improvement efforts.

By meticulously following the outlined steps, organizations can achieve lead time reductions ranging from 60% to 88%, along with increased resource availability, enhanced output with the same resources, timely project delivery, and, most importantly, a culture of continuous improvement among colleagues. This embrace of the Lean mindset plays a pivotal role in sustaining the gains achieved through VSM implementation.

In essence, this book offers a groundbreaking approach to leveraging VSM in complex, multifunctional environments, enabling organizations to optimize their processes, reduce waste, and achieve sustainable competitive advantage.

Weight: 604g
Dimension: 209 x 278 x 16 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367505660