ABSTRACT
Now that we have covered the unique features that must be included on a VSM to thoroughly describe a process operation, some general practices that apply to any type of VSM will be described.
VSMs should always depict flow from left to right in one relatively straight line. Because of the complexity of some processes, there can be a tendency to locate process steps on the map such that flow lines go up, down, or right to left in an attempt to fit everything in and keep the overall map within reasonable dimensions. This usually obscures a clear view of flow. When this occurs, it is usually because too much detail is being included, that is, the process is broken down into too many steps. When that happens, you should step back and decide if some process steps should be grouped together into a single combined step. If it is necessary to show those processes as separate steps to clearly depict flow, then having a wider map is acceptable and the right thing to do. It is far more important that the VSM create a clear and accurate picture of flow and its barriers and wastes than that it fit within a certain size.
