Value stream mapping looks at the material and information flows for a value stream. A future state map is created that leads directly to an implementation plan. It is a very powerful device for motivating and planning positive change.

To draw a value stream map you need to have a value stream. A value stream is all of the activities, both value added and non-value added required to bring a product from raw materials into the hands of the customer. When you create a value stream map, you actually walk the production (or office) floor, following the product, and draw a simple visual representation of the steps in the material and information flows. The objective is to see where waste is occurring at the system level, and then develop a comprehensive plan to remove it. The map is based on actual observation, not what you ‘think’ is happening.