Strategos Books & Videos

The Strategos Guide To Value Stream & Process Mapping Facilities Planning & Workplace Design

Warehouse Modernization & Planning Guide The Human Side of Lean Video

Six Steps To A Process Map

How To Map A Process

Six Steps To Success

process map

Home
Resources
Site Guide
Lean Training
Book Reviews
Useful Links
Search Site
About Strategos

Process Mapping (example below) is also known as Process Charting or Flow Charting. It is one of the oldest, simplest and most valuable techniques for streamlining work. It is also subtle and requires experienced facilitators for best results.

A process map visually depicts the sequence of events to build a product or produce an outcome. It may include additional information such as cycle time, inventory, and equipment information.

Several systems of conventions exist. At Strategos, we find that the original system invented by Frank Gilbreth in the early 1900's is still the most useful. The Gilbreth approach is highly visual and discriminates between waste and value-added activity. It is also simple, intuitive and easily used by untrained groups. An experienced facilitator, however, is required.

The figure below shows a Process Map example and instructions for its construction.

In most situations only the circle symbol (Operation) adds value. For more on added value versus waste, see "A Magical Moment With Dr. Shingo".

More Info

The How-To of Process Mapping
Facilitating A Mapping Team
Process Mapping Example
Information Flow Example
Future State Process

ORDER BOOK-Guide To Mapping

Benefits of Process Mapping

  • Puts a spotlight on waste

  • Streamlines work processes

  • Defines and standardizes the steps and sequence

  • Promotes deep understanding

  • Builds consensus

  • Key tool for workcell design

 

Strategos Guide To

Value Stream & Process Mapping

Quarterman Lee's latest book on Value Stream Mapping and Process Mapping goes far beyond symbols and arrows. It tells the reader not only how do it but what do with it. More Info >>

Present State Process Map Example

process map example

value stream

Additional Hints

  • Clearly define the product. A physical product is fairly obvious; intermediate products and intangible products less so.

  • Follow the product and ask "What is being done to this product?"\

  • Use a group setting with representation from all areas and all levels.

Online Interactive Seminar

Process & Value Stream Mapping

Take your learning team through the experience of mapping their own process with Quarterman Lee.  Learn the basics and the nuance of  Value Stream Mapping,  facilitating, and streamlining.

 

Subscribe to Lean Briefing-- The Free Newsletter of Lean Manufacturing Strategy

First Name: Last Name: Email:

Lean Briefing is sent about every month. You may "unsubscribe" at any time.

We will NOT: Sell this information, transfer it, bombard you with Email, or otherwise abuse your trust

Home ] Resources ] Site Guide ] Lean Training ] Book Reviews ] Useful Links ] Search Site ] About Strategos ]

Email: info1@strategosinc.com          Phone: 816-931-1414

Strategos-International:  China - Europe - Australia - North America