Unveiling the Power of VSM (Value Stream Mapping)

Kamaldeep Chawla
2 min readFeb 18, 2024

Originally conceptualized by Toyota as a material and information flow diagram within the Toyota Production System, Value Stream Mapping has evolved beyond lean manufacturing.

The approach is proven to be beneficial across various industries, emphasizing the importance of connectivity and visibility in business capabilities.

VSM creates customer value while optimizing resources and curbing waste.

Gartner defines a value stream as the sequence of activities required to deliver a product, service, or experience from its raw material or initiation stage to the hands of the end customer, whether internal or external.

Value Stream Mapping (VSM) is the strategic process that encapsulates the seamless flow of steps from initiation to delivering a value-added product to the end customer.

VSM is rooted in lean principles, aiming to optimize resources for effective planning, implementation, and continuous improvement.

In Nutshell- this methodology transcends organizational silos, providing end-to-end visibility of the entire activity flow.

VSM is a tool that enables organizations to visualize, analyze, and optimize their processes. It involves mapping material processing steps, people, digital and raw materials, and supply chain data into a comprehensive flow chart, distinguishing between value-adding and non-value-adding processes. This visualization aids organizations in identifying bottlenecks, delays, and inefficiencies, enabling the elimination of unnecessary steps.

Value stream mapping — Example

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Kamaldeep Chawla

 ICP-ACC and ATF Certified Agile Coach with 5 years experience in coaching teams, Scrum masters and helping with transformations.