Create Your First Value Stream Map and Identify Hidden Waste

In this project, you will apply the concepts learned in the class to create a simple Value Stream Map (VSM) of a real process. The goal is to visualize how work flows, uncover hidden inefficiencies, and identify opportunities for improvement.

This exercise helps you move from theory to practice by analyzing a real workflow from your workplace, business process, or a daily activity.

Examples of processes you can map include:

• Customer support ticket handling process
• HR recruitment or onboarding workflow
• Compliance approval process
• Order processing in an e-commerce business
• Invoice processing workflow
• Manufacturing production steps
• Personal productivity workflow (morning routine, study workflow, etc.)

The goal is to see the full process clearly and identify hidden inefficiencies, often called the Hidden Factory.

Project Steps Step 1: Select a Process

Choose a process that involves multiple steps and handoffs. Ideally select something that involves waiting time, approvals, or coordination between people.

Examples:

Customer complaint resolution
Employee onboarding
Purchase approval workflow
Technical support ticket handling

Write a short description of the process.

Step 2: Identify Process Steps

List all steps involved in the process from start to finish.

Example:

Customer submits request →
Support agent reviews ticket →
Ticket assigned to technical team →
Issue diagnosed →
Resolution provided →
Customer confirmation →
Ticket closed

Try to include every step, including waiting or approvals.

Step 3: Create the Value Stream Map

Now visualize the entire process.

Include:

• Process steps
• Waiting time between steps
• Information flow
• Decision points
• Handoffs between departments

You may create your map using:

• Pen and paper
• Sticky notes and whiteboard
• PowerPoint
• Miro / Mural
• Excel or diagrams
• Any process mapping software

A simple visual map is enough for this project.

Step 4: Identify the Hidden Factory

Look for activities that do not add value but consume time or effort.

Examples include:

• Waiting for approvals
• Rework or corrections
• Duplicate data entry
• Unnecessary reviews
• Multiple handoffs
• Delays between steps

Highlight at least 3 inefficiencies in your process.

Step 5: Suggest One Improvement

Finally, propose one improvement idea that could reduce waste or improve flow.

Examples:

• Reduce approval layers
• Automate data entry
• Combine two process steps
• Introduce parallel processing
• Use digital tools to reduce waiting time

Explain briefly how this improvement could improve the process.

What to Upload in the Project Section

Please upload the following:

Your Value Stream Map (Image or PDF)
A short description of the process you mapped
Three inefficiencies you identified
One improvement idea

You can upload:

• A photo of your hand-drawn map
• A screenshot of your digital map
• A PDF or slide

Keep it simple and practical.

GILLA Madhuri

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