VSM (Value Stream Management)

Value Stream Management (VSM) is a management and analytical approach used to optimize and improve a value stream or process in a company. Its goal is to identify, analyze and improve the various steps and activities in the process in order to achieve maximum value for the customer and minimize waste.  

A value stream includes all steps and activities that are necessary to transform inputs (materials, information, labor) into a final product or service that is delivered to customers. VSM focuses on understanding and mapping the entire value stream from start to finish.  

The main aspects of Value Stream Management are: 

1. Value Stream Mapping: This step involves creating a “value stream map,” which is a visual representation of the entire process. The map identifies all steps, activities, durations, inventory, waiting and waste in the production or process. 
2. Waste Identification: VSM focuses on detecting waste in the process. Waste can include unnecessary waiting, excess inventory, overwork, excessive movements, and the like. The goal is to eliminate or minimize these wastes to improve overall efficiency. 
3. Value analysis: VSM analyzes each step of the process and evaluates whether it adds real value to the customer. Each step should be assessed whether it is necessary and whether it is possible to streamline or eliminate this step. 
4. Suggestion of improvements: Based on the analysis of the value stream, improvements and innovations are proposed that can increase efficiency, reduce the duration of processes and improve the quality of outputs. 
5. Implementation of changes: Suggested improvements are implemented and their impact on process and performance is monitored. VSM supports a culture of continuous improvement and team involvement in innovation. 

Value Stream Management is often used in the context of Lean Management and Agile approaches to managing organizations. It helps to increase efficiency, reduce costs and increase customer satisfaction through better management of work flow, minimizing waste in production and processes.