Principle 1: Identify value

Determine what is most valuable to the customer and focus on maximizing that value.

Principle 2: Map the value stream

Identify the steps in the process that add value and eliminate those that do not.

Principle 3: Create flow

Streamline the process to create a smooth and continuous flow of work.

Principle 4: Establish pull

Use customer demand to trigger production and avoid overproduction.

Principle 5: Continuous improvement

Continuously strive for improvement and eliminate waste in all areas of the value
chain.

Value stream mapping (principle 2) is a tool that lets us visually represent all the steps and resources involved in delivering a unit of value (e.g., a product feature) to customers. Teams can use this tool to identify waste, work toward eliminating waste, and improve the flow of value (principle 3).

To map your team or product’s value stream, you can follow these steps:

1. Identify the product or service being mapped. This could be a single product or1. an entire process.
2. Identify the current state map. Create a visual representation of the current2. process, including all steps and materials (including time and labor) involved from raw materials to finished product.
3. Identify value-added and non-value-added activities. Determine which steps add3. value to the product or service and which do not.
4. Identify waste. Look for areas of overproduction, waiting, defects, overprocess‐4. ing, excess inventory, unnecessary motion, excess transport, unnecessary use of raw materials, and unnecessary effort.
5. Create a future state map. Based on the analysis of the current state map, redesign5. the process to eliminate waste and create a more efficient flow of materials and information.
6. Implement changes. Put the redesigned process into practice and continuously6. monitor and improve (principle 5).