This is the key concept which we will discuss in this blog. The key aspect of implementing any work is proper planning. Planning can be properly done only when you understand the requirement. Yes, in an IT industry requirement will be from the customer. So let us see how we can map the need of a customer while developing a product in every stage.
Map the need of a customer to streamline the process, this will add value to the development process and thus minimizes wastage. This process is called Value Stream Mapping in IT business. It is applicable to any kind of business. It is like a flowchart or a process map but with more value addition as it just not aim at making a plan but works towards eliminating the waste. It is in short called a VSM.
It is a stepwise process visually represented across all stages of development. The diagrammatic representation of each workflow will let the process owner to monitor the progress and take corrective measures.
This tool is easy to use and there are specific symbols available for each process and hence designing and monitoring becomes simple. However, before using any tool you can familiarise yourself with the symbols and make a quick plan by drawing a value stream mapping diagram with a pencil and paper. Later you can import that using software tools.
Why VSM?
In this section let us explain each symbol and its representation. You can see a truck image in the below table diagram which relates to shipping. There is one common symbol used for customers and suppliers. Let us go in detail to understand them. The table given below represents the symbol and its meaning. They are self-explanatory and grouped into four groups namely process, information, materials and general symbols. Don’t feel threatened, you will become familiar with symbols when you start using them in action.
In general value stream mapping is also called flow mapping of both materials and information. It is used in lean management which will let the team analyze the current state and design a foolproof future state for developing the product by minimizing the wastage.
There are certain identified symbols used to represent the VSM chart. You have seen the explanation of common symbols used in the above table. Now, relate the symbols with the diagram given below which will give you a fair idea about how and where to use the symbols.
Different steps involved in value stream mapping
Keep doing this until you eliminate waste and improve your process.
As mentioned already, VSM is not industry-specific and it can be used in any field as mentioned below and all it needs is the process item.
Do you want to learn about value stream mapping with examples, then register for SAFe Agile Certification Online with us.
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