HKSM

A Lean technique that diagrams how work and information move through a process so teams can visualize the end-to-end flow, pinpoint waste and non-value-adding steps, and redesign the workflow to improve speed and efficiency.

Key Points

• Shows the current-state flow of work and information across the entire process from start to finish.
• Exposes waste such as delays, rework, excessive handoffs, queues, and overprocessing; often captures lead time, cycle time, and WIP.
• Enables creation of a future-state map and an improvement plan to remove non-value-adding steps and improve flow.
• Common in Lean and Agile to streamline product delivery and reduce time to value across teams and dependencies.

Example

A software delivery team maps the journey from feature request to production release, noting handoffs, review steps, test durations, and wait times. The map reveals duplicate approvals, long QA queues, and frequent context-switching. The team consolidates approvals, automates regression tests, and limits WIP. Lead time drops from 20 days to 9 days.

PMP Example Question

Which tool should a project manager use to visualize how work and information flow through a process and to identify steps that do not add value?

1. SIPOC diagram
2. Value stream mapping
3. RACI matrix
4. Control chart

Correct Answer: B — Value stream mapping

Explanation: Value stream mapping charts the end-to-end flow to reveal waste. SIPOC is a high-level scope tool, RACI assigns roles, and control charts monitor process stability.