Strategos Lean Briefing

The Newsletter of Lean Manufacturing & Factory Science

01 April 2004

Value Stream Mapping (VSM)

Value Stream Mapping (VSM) is a powerful, paradigm-shifting tool for planning Lean Manufacturing Strategy. It helps identify specific opportunities, priorities and precedents. It is not, however, the "Silver Bullet" that many proponents declare. VSM has limits; it is a tool for strategy, not the strategy itself. Moreover, it does not address the human issues in those complex socio-technical systems we call factories.

Our new web pages explain the steps and construction. One page deciphers the hieroglyphics and symbols of VSM and offers a free download of symbols. We also examine limitations-- when not to use VSM is as important as when it should be used. There are also examples of Present and Future State maps.

I hope this new series is helpful. You can also train your Lean Team and take them through the experience of analyzing their own processes and Value Streams with our new online/onsite seminar. Call me for details.

Quarterman Lee

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