Another key concept related to Value Stream Mapping that we need to understand up-front is the concept of Standard Work. Remember that without Standard Work Definition, we are at a low level on the Process Maturity Model.

Standard Work Definition refers to the documentation of detailed process work steps, times and quality criteria. Standard work will incorporate elimination of waste, safety, and reasonable and generous time standards. Without having this information available it will be difficult to implement some of the more “advanced” lean methods like cellular manufacturing.