Improvement Concept 3: Value Stream Mapping
Value stream mapping is the process of graphically
mapping the flow of people and product to identify
key problem areas.7 The 1st step in developing a VSM
is drawing a visual representation of the current flow
of people and/or product. It is essential to start from
the very beginning of the process, just as the patient
enters the facility, and to indicate the time each process
step takes. This is then used by the team to assess
the ‘‘current state’’ value stream and to identify ways
for improving the flow. The overall goal is to remove
the ‘‘waste’’ that exists within the VSM, such as complex
registration systems or idle patient time. A ‘‘future
state’’ map is then developed with a new target condition
or process that improves by eliminating or reducing
the ‘‘wastes’’ highlighted in the current state
Figure 1. Conceptualization of the SOS map. The last step is to develop and implement a plan
to achieve the newly designed future state. Like 5S,
VSM is a cyclical process, always with a new future
state map to be implemented