4-2

Overview: Value stream mapping is a qualitative lean systems tool aimed at eliminating waste (muda) in many manufacturing processes. Value stream mapping is useful because it creates a visual map of every process involved in the flow of materials and information in a product’s value chain (worth of operations).

Prompt: Using the example of a value stream map in Table 6.1 (in Chapter 6 of the course textbook), produce a value stream map of the company you selected to research for your final project. (You may focus on a specific product line or division within the company.) In similar chart form, be sure to include each of the eight types of waste and how they apply to your selected company. You may use the textbook information and any outside sources identified in your research so far to inform your response. The eight types of waste are as follows:

1. Overproduction

2. Inappropriate processing

3. Waiting

4. Transportation

5. Motion

6. Inventory

7. Defects

8. Underutilization of employees

For more information on how to develop a flow chart, see the following video tutorials:

· Create a Flow Chart With SmartArt Graphics

· Create a Flow Chart With PowerPoint

Your value stream map should outline the three parts of the value stream mapping process:

1. Evaluation: Include a current-state value stream map, as exemplified by the instructions and process steps in Chapter 6 of the course textbook. This will require an evaluation of the present processes being investigated. Be sure to include all relevant processing steps, timeline elements, and transportation methods for delivery on incoming shipment of product.

2. Projection: Include a future-state value stream map, which projects how the value stream map would lay out after improvements are made.

3. Analysis and Recommendations: Include an implementation plan, as exemplified by the instructions and process steps in Chapter 6 of the course textbook. Be sure to completely analyze the current-state value stream map, identify instances of bottlenecks and waste (muda), and clearly explain the improvements that can be made to achieve a leaner process.

The current-state and future-state value stream maps should be included in the document you submit. Outside sources identified in your research so far can be used to inform your responses. Note that this exercise will help you prepare for the tasks in the Milestone Two assignment.

Guidelines for Submission: Submit a 3- to 5-page document with double spacing, 12-point Times New Roman font, and one-inch margins. Your sources should be properly cited according to APA style on a References page at the end of your report. Your value stream maps should be included in the document you submit. They may be created as tables in the document, or they may be images that you create in another application and paste into your submission.

Critical Elements	Proficient (100%)	Needs Improvement (80%)	Not Evident (0%)	Value
Evaluation: Current-State Value Stream Map	Current-state value stream map correctly and thoroughly charts the company’s current processes	Current-state value stream map is developed but may be incorrectly charted or incomplete	Does not include a current-state value stream map	30
Projection: Future-State Value Stream Map	Future-state value stream map is correctly and completely developed, outlining key opportunities to eliminate waste (muda)	Future-state value stream map is developed but may contain flow chart errors or omissions that overlook opportunities to eliminate waste (muda)	Does not include a future-state value stream map	30
Analysis and Recommendations: Implementation Plan	Implementation plan identifies notable instances of waste (muda) in the company’s processes and makes creative and feasible recommendations for improvement of bottlenecks and transportation methods for deliveries/shipment of product	Implementation plan identifies instances of waste (muda) in the company’s processes but overlooks some areas where inefficiencies could be addressed; recommendations for improvement are made but may not be complete or fully feasible	Does not include an implementation plan	30
Articulation of Response	Submission has no major errors related to citations, grammar, spelling, syntax, or organization	Submission has major errors related to citations, grammar, spelling, syntax, or organization that negatively impact readability and articulation of main ideas	Submission has critical errors related to citations, grammar, spelling, syntax, or organization that prevent understanding of ideas	10
			Total	100%