Value Stream Mapping

Value Stream Mapping is a powerful tool for visualising an entire workflow. It highlights expectations, bottlenecks, and waste. This game allows teams to collaborate to identify priority improvements, thereby optimising processes and increasing efficiency.

Walkthrough

1. 1

   Introduction to the concept

   10 min

   The facilitator explains the concept of Value Stream Mapping and its importance in continuous improvement. They emphasise how this approach makes inefficiencies visible and helps prioritise improvements. Participants are encouraged to ask questions to clarify their expectations.

   Tip — Use concrete industry examples to illustrate the impact of Value Stream Mapping.

2. 2

   Selection of the process to map

   10 min

   Participants discuss and collectively choose a specific process to analyse. The facilitator guides the discussion to ensure that the chosen process is clear and relevant for everyone. It is important that the process is well-defined to facilitate mapping.

   Tip — Encourage participants to choose a process that has a direct impact on their strategic objectives.

3. 3

   Mapping the current flow

   30 min

   Participants draw the current workflow on a whiteboard or sheets of paper. The facilitator helps them identify each step of the process, the inputs and outputs, as well as the associated timelines. This step allows for a clear visualisation of the workflow as it exists today.

   Tip — Ensure that everyone fully understands each step before moving on to the next.

4. 4

   Identification of waste

   20 min

   With the current flow in front of them, participants identify waste and bottlenecks. The facilitator encourages an open discussion so that everyone can express their observations and suggestions. The goal is to list all potential improvement points.

   Tip — Use different coloured sticky notes to distinguish between types of waste (time, resources, etc.).

5. 5

   Designing the future flow

   30 min

   Building on the identified waste, participants design an optimised workflow. The facilitator guides the group to integrate improvements and check the feasibility of the proposed changes. This step aims to create a shared vision of the ideal process.

   Tip — Encourage innovative ideas while keeping an eye on practical feasibility.

6. 6

   Action plan

   20 min

   Participants develop an action plan to implement the future flow. The facilitator helps define concrete steps, responsible parties, and deadlines. This plan should be realistic and aligned with available resources.

   Tip — Ensure that each action has a clearly defined owner to guarantee follow-up.

Variants

• Use digital mapping software to create more complex flows.
• Invite members from other departments to gain an external perspective on the process.
• Focus on a specific sub-process for a shorter, targeted workshop.