Summary

This ends the introductory chapter to VSM. You have learned that VSM provides an approach to evaluate all development and operational value streams methodically and continuously. The goal of VSM is to ensure an organization remains in alignment with corporate strategies and adds customer-centric value.

You've also learned VSM is not a new concept and that the concepts and practices support the implementation and sustainment of Lean production practices across an organization's value streams. Organizations typically have many value streams. James Martin, an IT leader, provided a comprehensive discussion on the need for an end-to-end reinvention of business processes in the form of value streams. Martin was also an early proponent of value stream mapping, though his approach preceded the modern format we'll use in Chapter 6, Launching the VSM Initiative (VSM Steps 1-3), on mapping and improving value streams.

Finally, you can now identify the eight VSM steps...