Lean session 2 - Value stream mapping

Question 1

What is A3 problem solving?

Answer 1

A structured, visual method for identifying and solving problems based on root cause analysis and continuous learning.

Question 2

Why is it called ‘A3’?

Answer 2

Because the entire problem-solving story is summarized on an A3-sized paper.

Question 3

What are the key steps of the A3 process?

Answer 3

1. Grasp the situation, 2. Define the problem, 3. Root cause analysis, 4. Countermeasures, 5. Implementation, 6. Follow-up.

Question 4

What is Value Stream Mapping (VSM)?

Answer 4

A Lean tool for visualizing the flow of materials and information required to deliver a product or service.

Question 5

What are the stages of a VSM exercise?

Answer 5

1. Map current state, 2. Identify waste, 3. Design future state, 4. Create implementation plan.

Question 6

What does VSM help you ‘see’?

Answer 6

Waste, inefficiencies, and delays in the value delivery process.

Question 7

Why is future state mapping important?

Answer 7

It provides a vision for improvement by eliminating waste and improving flow.

Question 8

According to Rother & Shook, what is more important than resource efficiency?

Answer 8

Flow efficiency — maximizing value delivery to the customer.

Question 9

How is VSM strategic, according to Liker (2006)?

Answer 9

It fosters collaboration, reveals systemic issues, and aligns improvement with strategic goals.

Question 10

What was the purpose of the canteen VSM exercise?

Answer 10

To practice mapping a current state, identifying improvement opportunities, and designing a more efficient future state.