Value Stream Mapping

A value stream can be considered to be the flow of product from supplier to manufacturer to customer and all things in between. Mapping all of the processes that make up the value stream helps to identify waste, non value added portions and bottle necks. Typically inventory and work-in-process can be easily identified in this mapping exercise. A value stream in a non-manufacturing organization, like healthcare, is the flow of the patient through the healthcare facility. .

Value Stream

The sequence of activities that add value to the customer's product or service - the flow of the important parts of the process that create products and services for the customer.

Value added VA

Any process or activity that the customer is willing to pay for. VA work needs to be optimised and improved.

Non Value Added - NVA

Any activity or process that the customer would not be willing to pay for if they knew your were doing it.

The Thinking Way
This is a system that develops your people into problem solvers by the incessant use of the scientific method or OPDCA - Observe, Plan, Do, Check, Act. In this system there is a realization that people learn by doing and making mistakes. It's been said that "it's easier to act your way to a new way of thinking than to think your way to a new way of acting." This acting helps to produce "Lean Culture"