6.7 Conclusion

As the opening quote to this chapter illustrates, you cannot eliminate waste that you do not even know exists!

Value stream mapping is a powerful and yet simple tool that can be used to identify waste and improve process flow. Current state maps are developed so that everyone has a better idea as to exactly what is happening in the process. Waste is easily identified and future state maps show a process where this waste is minimized.

In the true spirit of lean management, the cycle continues with future state maps becoming current state maps and ongoing efforts to develop better and better futures. This is not to say the changes will be easy, but the tools and techniques provided later in this book will help you in your mapping endeavors.

Always keep in mind that lean management involves methodology—specific tools like value stream mapping—as well as philosophy—the onboarding of a lean culture that all employees feel a responsibility toward.