What is the flow of values?

The flow of values ​​is a technique used to identify and remove unnecessary steps from the flow of information and materials. The final goal of this technique is to make society "slim", which means without unnecessary effort. Toyota is generally given recognition for the development of lean production techniques that have been modified and added by the onset of generations of managers and consultants.

Although the implementation and emphasis on lean techniques can vary very much, the mapping of values ​​flows remains a key and recognizable element across companies, industries and even countries. In order to understand the flow of values, it is important to first understand several relevant terms. Speaking of the process, we mean every step that occurs from the supply chain to the point where the customer receives a finished product. For example, mapping of value flows for paper mill can begin when receiving raw materials such as wood and chemicals, and ends in the transport of finished, packaged paper Products. NoticeE souther that there are slim techniques such as mapping of values ​​for any larger process segment. More often than not, companies divide their process into discrete sections, allowing several teams of experts to apply lean techniques at the same time.

Furthermore, the difference between value and waste must be determined. In its widest sense, the value adds something to the product that the customer wants or needs. Returning to the example of paper, steps of values ​​are those that give paper the required dimensions, color, composition, etc. On the other hand, there is any step that does not add value. The most commonly cited forms of waste is unnecessary movement of the product, equipment or employees; Maintaining stocks of raw materials or products waiting for processing; Creating more parts or products than customer demand; Process the component more than the customer actually needs or expects; quality controls; or the subsequent reworkObad.

Now use these conditions to map the flow values. The company begins with a process or part of the process. The paper mill decides to make its distribution section slimmer. The best -known workers and managers from this section will meet and determine where the difference process begins and ends. They will identify each step between them and present it in the form of a development diagram or process map. Once they have the exact process of the process, it is time to map the current current. Each step on their map is analyzed and marked as adding value, waste, but required or waste.

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Stage Managers then evaluate the steps identified as unnecessary and ruthlessly cut them off the process. Perhaps the company organizes an excessive list of chemicals giving away and tied cash that could otherwise be better use. Or they realize that thontroly quality performed in the middle of giving away is redundant and unnecessary. However, the best managers are not satisfied with the use of value flow mappingonly to remove waste and lean your process. These witness entrepreneurs also use the flow of values ​​to find ways to increase the value of the product for customers, which is a practice that certainly adds value to the company's income current.