Rubicon Wigzell
What is Value Stream Mapping?
Value Stream Mapping (VSM) is a Lean methodology used to visualise, analyse, and improve workflows within a value stream. By creating a detailed map of each process step, VSM helps businesses identify inefficiencies and streamline operations.
Purpose of VSM in Lean Construction
In construction, VSM is used to map out the flow of materials, information, and processes. It highlights waste areas such as delays due to bottlenecks, overproduction, and resource misallocation, allowing teams to implement Lean strategies that improve overall efficiency.
Core Elements of Value Stream Mapping
- Material and Information Flow: Tracking how resources move through a project or business.
- Process Steps: Documenting each activity from planning to handover.
- Waste Points: Identifying delays, redundancies, and inefficiencies.
Key Benefits of Value Stream Mapping in Construction
Enhanced Process Visibility
VSM provides a clear, end-to-end visual representation of workflows, the allocation of roles and responsibilities, making it easier to identify bottlenecks and areas needing improvement.
Waste Reduction and Cost Savings
By pinpointing waste areas such as queuing time, excessive movement, and defects, VSM helps reduce project timelines and unnecessary costs.
Improved Resource Allocation
VSM ensures the optimal use of people, materials and machines, leading to better coordination across different project phases.
How Value Stream Mapping Works in Lean Construction
Mapping the Project Value Stream
The process begins by mapping each step of a project, from initial design to final delivery. This allows teams to see where inefficiencies exist and where improvements can be made.
Identifying Waste
VSM reveals bottlenecks, resource underutilisation, and unnecessary steps that slow down productivity.
Developing a Lean Strategy
Using insights from VSM, Rubicon Wigzell develops Lean strategies tailored to each client’s needs, ensuring continuous efficiency improvements.
Industry Sectors
Buildings
Water
Energy
Road
Rail
Communications
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Steps in Value Stream Mapping for Construction Projects
Current State Mapping
The first step is to create a detailed map of existing processes to understand how work is currently performed.
Future State Mapping
A future state map is developed to design optimised workflows that eliminate waste and improve efficiency.
Implementation and Continuous Monitoring
Rubicon Wigzell plays a crucial role in executing these process improvements and ensuring long-term success through continuous monitoring.
Applications of Value Stream Mapping in Business Processes
Improving Contract Management, Procurement, and HR
Beyond construction processes, VSM helps optimise business functions such as contract management and procurement, reducing bottlenecks and ensuring smooth operations.
Value Stream Mapping for Project Delivery
By applying VSM, construction firms can streamline project delivery, improving coordination, reducing waste, and enhancing efficiency.
End-to-End Value Stream Visualisation
VSM allows teams to see the big picture, facilitating continuous improvement throughout the project lifecycle.
Real-World Examples of VSM Success
A large-scale infrastructure project using VSM (see link above) identified delays in material procurement, design batching, production scheduling and manufacturing bottlenecks, improvements in these, led to a 40% reduction in lead time.
Benefits in Commercial Building Projects
Commercial projects implementing VSM have seen reduced material waste, improved scheduling accuracy, and enhanced overall project efficiency, these include the Shard Building and the International Broadcast Centre delivered as part of the 2012 Olympic Games.
Client Testimonials
Clients of Rubicon Wigzell have reported significant efficiency gains, faster project completion times, and reduced costs due to VSM implementation
Why Choose Rubicon Wigzell for Value Stream Mapping?
Experienced Lean Consultants with Extensive Construction Industry Expertise
Rubicon Wigzell’s team brings extensive Lean knowledge and years of experience in applying VSM across various construction sectors.
Proven Track Record in Waste Elimination
The company has successfully helped clients identify and eliminate waste, leading to significant cost savings and efficiency improvements.
Focus on Sustainable Efficiency
Rubicon Wigzell is committed to long-term, sustainable process improvements that drive measurable results for clients.
Our Approach to Value Stream Mapping
Customised Mapping for Construction Projects
Rubicon Wigzell tailors VSM to the specific needs of different project or business types, ensuring maximum impact.
Collaborative Process with Client Teams
By working closely with client teams, Rubicon Wigzell ensures that all stakeholders are aligned with Lean improvement goals.
Continuous Support for Lasting Impact
Beyond initial implementation, Rubicon Wigzell provides ongoing support to maintain and build upon efficiency gains.
Implementing Value Stream Mapping for Optimal Project Delivery
Assessment and Planning
Rubicon Wigzell conducts thorough assessments to identify improvement areas before mapping begins, these include; Value Streams that offer the biggest opportunities for improvement (longest, most costly or involves the most people) or Value Streams that have a clear and current issue affecting the business or the customer or both.
Implementation and Process Changes
Using VSM insights, Rubicon Wigzell implements Lean-driven changes that optimise workflows and project efficiency.
Interactive VSM Demo Option
For clients interested in a more hands-on approach, Rubicon Wigzell offers interactive VSM demos to illustrate the process and its benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
What our recent customers have asked.
VSM is a Lean tool that helps us visualise and analyse processes to identify and reduce waste, improving efficiency in our construction projects.
VSM involves mapping the current state, designing a future state, and implementing changes to achieve optimal workflows.
VSM streamlines business processes by reducing bottlenecks and ensuring efficient resource allocation
Yes, VSM helps visualise and optimise processes from initial planning to project handover, ensuring continuous improvement.
With extensive industry expertise and a proven track record, Rubicon Wigzell helps clients eliminate waste and enhance project efficiency through VSM.