The common practice is to assign a Value Stream Manager once positive changes have been implemented through project work. However, some of the ways that Value Stream Mapping is being used to assist with project prioritization and project acceptance decisions at the level of the Continuous Improvement Council may suggest that Value Stream Managers should be introduced when the Current State Map is completed. It is strongly recommended that Value Stream Managers have the knowledge and skills not only to interpret a Value Stream Map, but also to be capable of mapping the value stream. Having this mapping ability not only makes it easier for the Value Stream Manager to compare what is observed in the process, but it also provides more credibility with coworkers and management alike. The Value Stream Manager must be given time throughout the day or week to monitor the process. Comparing what is actually occurring against the Current State Map, when no change has been initiated, gives great insight into what is happening on a day-to-day basis. If there is visible change in the tasks, volumes produced, or even the number of employees assigned, the Value Stream Manager needs to report this information to the decision maker, the Lean champion, the Lean manager, or even the Executive Council to call a meeting. This information alone may escalate the value stream’s priority to (or near) the top of the project list. For value streams where change has been implemented, this role becomes even more critical. The Value Stream Manager must be diligent in monitoring the changes. If the process begins to revert to the “old ways,” or if employees within the process begin to make changes without proper guidance and input from project teams or management, it is possible that the improvements made during a project will produce no positive impact. Additionally, assigning someone as Value Stream Manager gives a voice to the value stream. This individual can speak for the value stream and its employees, informing champions and the council when the project work is not complete or is ineffective. The Value Stream Manager must be held accountable for drift in the process—not for the drift occurring, but for discussing the changes in the process with employees, for attempting to self-correct these issues, and for reporting the process change to the Lean manager and/or council. As previously mentioned, the Value Stream Manager should use posted Value Stream Maps as visual indicators and provide adverse changes in metrics to identify this drift in the process. Another duty essential to successful monitoring and continuous improvement of the value stream is to hold the Value Stream Manager responsible for periodic remapping of the current state. This proactive approach to mapping provides excellent proactive data to the Lean manager and council in search of successes and opportunities within the organization