Optimize business processes with our Six Sigma Value Stream Mapping workflow. Uncover waste, propose efficient solutions, and continually improve based on feedback.
1
Identify the process to be mapped
2
Gather necessary documents about the process
3
Organize and review all relevant process data
4
Approval: Review of Process Data
5
Establish a cross-functional team
6
Identify the process inputs and outputs
7
Measure time and cost for each process step
8
Map out the current state of the process
9
Identify all points of waste in the current process
10
Propose changes to eliminate waste
11
Approval: Proposed Changes
12
Design the future state of the process
13
Develop action plans to achieve the future state
14
Implement the action plans
15
Monitor and measure the impact of changes
16
Approval: Impact Assessment
17
Communicate the new process to all stakeholders
18
Keep improving the process based on feedback and measurements
Identify the process to be mapped
In this task, you will identify the specific process that will be mapped. This is an important step to ensure clarity and focus throughout the value stream mapping process. Consider the impact of the chosen process on the overall organization and how it aligns with strategic goals and objectives. Is there a particular process that has been causing bottlenecks or inefficiencies? What are the desired results of mapping this process?
1
Manufacturing
2
Service
3
Administrative
4
Logistics
5
Healthcare
Gather necessary documents about the process
To effectively map the chosen process, it's essential to gather all relevant documents and information. These could include process flowcharts, standard operating procedures, work instructions, forms, and any other materials that provide insights into how the process currently operates. This task will help ensure that you have all the necessary resources to accurately map the process.
Organize and review all relevant process data
In this task, you will organize and review all the relevant process data that you have gathered. This includes analyzing the documents and information to gain a comprehensive understanding of the process. Look for patterns, bottlenecks, and areas of improvement. Identify any missing or outdated information that needs to be addressed. The objective of this task is to gather insights and identify areas for improvement.
1
Comprehensive
2
Partial
3
Limited
4
None
1
Task A
2
Task B
3
Task C
4
Task D
5
Task E
Approval: Review of Process Data
Will be submitted for approval:
Organize and review all relevant process data
Will be submitted
Establish a cross-functional team
A cross-functional team brings together individuals from different areas of the organization with diverse expertise and perspectives. In this task, you will establish a cross-functional team to facilitate the value stream mapping process. Consider including representatives from operations, finance, IT, and any other relevant departments. This will help ensure a comprehensive understanding of the process and enable effective collaboration throughout the mapping process.
1
Operations representative
2
Finance representative
3
IT representative
4
Quality representative
5
Customer service representative
Identify the process inputs and outputs
In this task, you will identify and document the inputs and outputs of the process being mapped. Inputs are the resources, materials, or information that are required to initiate and execute the process, while outputs are the end results or deliverables. Understanding the inputs and outputs is essential for analyzing the flow of the process and identifying opportunities for improvement.
1
Simple
2
Moderate
3
Complex
Measure time and cost for each process step
To accurately map the process, it is important to measure the time and cost associated with each process step. This will help identify areas of inefficiency and waste. In this task, you will gather data on the time taken and the cost incurred for each step of the process. Consider using time tracking tools, conducting observations, or analyzing historical data to gather this information.
Map out the current state of the process
In this task, you will create a visual representation of the current state of the process. This can be done using flowcharts, diagrams, or any other appropriate visual tool. Include all relevant process steps, inputs, outputs, and decision points. Additionally, highlight any bottlenecks, delays, or areas of waste that have been identified. The objective is to have a clear and comprehensive understanding of how the process currently operates.
1
Decision A
2
Decision B
3
Decision C
4
Decision D
5
Decision E
Identify all points of waste in the current process
In this task, you will identify and document all points of waste in the current process. Waste refers to any activity, process, or resource that does not add value to the customer or organization. Common types of waste include overproduction, waiting time, unnecessary transportation, excessive inventory, defects, and over-processing. Identify these points of waste to guide future improvement efforts.
Propose changes to eliminate waste
In this task, you will propose changes and improvements to eliminate the identified points of waste. Consider lean principles and techniques such as 5S, Just-in-Time, and Kanban to guide your proposals. Think critically about how each change will address and eliminate the specific type of waste identified. Your proposals should be realistic, feasible, and consider the impact on other parts of the process and the organization as a whole.
Approval: Proposed Changes
Will be submitted for approval:
Map out the current state of the process
Will be submitted
Identify all points of waste in the current process
Will be submitted
Design the future state of the process
In this task, you will design the future state of the process based on the proposed changes. Create a visual representation of the future state using flowcharts, diagrams, or any other appropriate visual tool. Clearly depict how the process will operate after the implementation of the proposed changes. Consider the impact on process flow, resource allocation, and overall efficiency. The objective is to have a clear vision of the desired future state of the process.
Develop action plans to achieve the future state
In this task, you will develop action plans to achieve the future state of the process. Break down the proposed changes into specific tasks and action steps. Assign responsibilities, set timelines, and identify any required resources or tools. Consider using project management methodologies such as SMART goals and Gantt charts to ensure clarity and accountability in the action plans.
1
Responsibility A
2
Responsibility B
3
Responsibility C
4
Responsibility D
5
Responsibility E
Implement the action plans
In this task, you will implement the action plans developed in the previous task. Execute the specific tasks and action steps assigned to each responsible party. Monitor progress, address any challenges or obstacles that arise, and ensure alignment with the desired future state of the process. Regular communication and coordination within the cross-functional team will be crucial during this stage.
1
Low
2
Medium
3
High
Monitor and measure the impact of changes
In this task, you will monitor and measure the impact of the implemented changes on the process. Gather data, conduct observations, and collect feedback from stakeholders to assess the effectiveness of the changes. Compare key performance indicators (KPIs) before and after the implementation to determine the impact on efficiency, quality, and customer satisfaction. This evaluation will guide further improvement efforts and identify any necessary adjustments.
Approval: Impact Assessment
Will be submitted for approval:
Monitor and measure the impact of changes
Will be submitted
Communicate the new process to all stakeholders
In this task, you will communicate the new process to all stakeholders involved. Prepare clear and concise communication materials, such as presentations, memos, or training materials, to ensure understanding and buy-in from all parties. Consider the most effective channels and methods for communicating with different stakeholder groups, and tailor the messaging to address their specific needs and concerns.
1
Managers
2
Employees
3
Customers
4
Suppliers
5
Regulatory bodies
Keep improving the process based on feedback and measurements
In this task, you will continuously improve the process based on feedback and measurements. Regularly review the performance metrics and feedback received from stakeholders. Identify areas for further improvement and iterate on the changes implemented. Maintain an ongoing culture of continuous improvement and encourage input and suggestions from all stakeholders.
