Summary

In this paper, we discuss about the effectiveness and appropriateness of Value Stream Mapping as a systems way of optimizing the product flow and the information flow in an organization. Value Stream Mapping brings to surface the inefficiencies in primarily two paradigms: the product flow, which is tangible; and the information flow across various functions, which is intangible. This is the only tool which represents both the product flow and the related information flow in the same document. The product’s journey from the raw material stage to the finished product, be it within an organization, or across organizations (suppliers, customers, until end users), is mapped in a sequential procedure. The information flow associated at each stage of the product flow is represented. Mapping always starts with the customer and ends with the customer, safeguarding the organization’s objective of catering to the customer’s needs as a primary intent. Value Stream Mapping activity is carried out in three stages – Mapping the current state, analysis of current state (waste identification), elimination of waste , drawing the desired future state (waste elimination) This paper aims to urge organizations to have a re-look at the wastes that they’re carrying with them in the process of catering to the customer needs.