Course Details

Value Stream Mapping for Project Optimization Training Course: Analyzing and improving end-to-end value delivery in projects.

Introduction

Maximize efficiency and accelerate value delivery in your projects with our "Value Stream Mapping for Project Optimization" training course. In today's dynamic project environments, understanding and improving the flow of value from concept to customer is critical. This intensive 10-day program will equip you with the powerful tools and techniques of Value Stream Mapping (VSM) to visually analyze your current project workflows, pinpoint bottlenecks, eliminate waste, and design future-state processes that drive superior outcomes. Transform your project delivery, reduce lead times, and enhance overall efficiency by mastering this essential Lean methodology.

Duration

10 Days

Target Audience

This course is ideal for project managers, program managers, process improvement specialists, Lean practitioners, and team leads who are committed to optimizing their project workflows and delivering value more effectively. It is particularly beneficial for those working in:

• Project Management Offices (PMOs) seeking to standardize and optimize project processes.
• Organizations undergoing Lean or Agile transformations.
• Teams experiencing significant delays, rework, or resource bottlenecks.
• Professionals leading continuous improvement initiatives in project delivery.
• Anyone looking to gain a holistic view of their project processes and identify opportunities for substantial efficiency gains.

Course Objectives

Upon successful completion of the "Value Stream Mapping for Project Optimization" training course, participants will be able to:

• Understand the fundamental principles of Value Stream Mapping (VSM) and its application in project management contexts.
• Identify the various types of waste (Muda) that commonly occur within project value streams.
• Conduct a comprehensive "Current State" Value Stream Map for a selected project or project phase.
• Analyze current state maps to pinpoint bottlenecks, non-value-added activities, and opportunities for improvement.
• Design an optimized "Future State" Value Stream Map that eliminates waste and improves flow and efficiency.
• Develop a robust implementation plan to transition from current state to future state, focusing on practical actions.
• Utilize VSM in conjunction with other Lean tools such as 5S, Kanban, and Standardized Work for holistic improvement.
• Apply VSM to various project types, including software development, product launches, and business process improvements.
• Measure and track the impact of VSM initiatives on key project performance indicators (e.g., lead time, cycle time, quality).
• Lead and facilitate VSM workshops within their organizations, fostering a culture of continuous improvement.

Course Modules

Module 1: Introduction to Value Stream Mapping (VSM) for Projects

• What is Value Stream Mapping? Origins and core concepts from Lean Manufacturing.
• Adapting VSM for knowledge work and project management contexts.
• The purpose of VSM: Visualizing flow, identifying waste, and designing future states.
• Why VSM is crucial for project optimization: Beyond individual tasks to end-to-end value delivery.
• Overview of key VSM symbols and terminology.

Module 2: Lean Principles and Identifying Project Waste

• Review of Lean principles: Value, Value Stream, Flow, Pull, Perfection.
• The 7+1 Wastes (Muda) in project management: Overproduction of documentation, waiting for approvals, unnecessary motion/handoffs, rework, etc.
• Techniques for observing and documenting waste in project processes (Gemba walks, process observation).
• Differentiating value-added, necessary non-value-added, and pure waste activities in projects.
• The link between waste reduction and improved project efficiency, quality, and morale.

Module 3: Preparing for a Value Stream Mapping Workshop

• Defining the scope of the project value stream to be mapped.
• Identifying the "customer" of the value stream and their specific value requirements.
• Assembling the right cross-functional team for the VSM workshop.
• Gathering necessary data and preparing the workspace for mapping.
• Setting clear objectives and expected outcomes for the VSM exercise.

Module 4: Mapping the Current State Project Value Stream

• Step-by-step guidance on drawing a Current State Value Stream Map.
• Mapping information flow: Communication channels, data handoffs, decision points.
• Mapping material/work flow: Tasks, handoffs, queues, waiting times.
• Capturing key metrics: Lead time, cycle time, process time, setup time, accuracy rates.
• Identifying areas of confusion, bottlenecks, and re-work loops.

Module 5: Analyzing the Current State and Quantifying Waste

• Techniques for interpreting the Current State Map: Spaghetti diagrams, swimlane analysis.
• Calculating Value-Added Time (VAT) vs. Non-Value-Added Time (NVAT) in project workflows.
• Quantifying the impact of identified waste on project schedule, cost, and quality.
• Pinpointing the "single point of failure" or most significant bottleneck in the value stream.
• Prioritizing waste reduction opportunities based on impact and feasibility.

Module 6: Designing the Future State Project Value Stream

• Principles for designing an ideal future state: Flow, pull, perfection.
• Brainstorming solutions to eliminate identified waste and bottlenecks.
• Applying Lean concepts: Leveling the workload, reducing batch sizes, standardizing work.
• Creating a visually distinct Future State Map with desired process improvements.
• Setting target metrics for the improved value stream (e.g., reduced lead time).

Module 7: Developing an Implementation Plan for VSM Improvements

• Breaking down the Future State Map into actionable improvement initiatives.
• Creating a detailed action plan: Who, what, when, and how for each improvement.
• Prioritizing initiatives based on effort vs. impact.
• Assigning responsibilities and establishing timelines for implementation.
• Integrating VSM action plans with existing project plans or continuous improvement programs.

Module 8: VSM in Agile and Hybrid Project Environments

• Applying VSM to Agile development processes: Mapping the software delivery pipeline.
• Identifying waste in Scrum ceremonies, backlog refinement, and sprint execution.
• Using VSM to optimize DevOps pipelines and continuous delivery.
• Integrating VSM with hybrid project methodologies for end-to-end visibility.
• Leveraging VSM to enhance flow and reduce impediments in scaled agile frameworks.

Module 9: Sustaining VSM Benefits and Continuous Improvement

• Establishing metrics and visual controls to monitor the performance of the improved value stream.
• Using the Plan-Do-Check-Act (PDCA) cycle for ongoing refinement and problem-solving.
• Regular review and update of Value Stream Maps as processes evolve.
• Fostering a culture of continuous improvement and waste consciousness within project teams.
• Communicating the success and impact of VSM initiatives to stakeholders.

Module 10: Facilitating VSM Workshops and Advanced Applications

• Best practices for leading and facilitating effective VSM workshops.
• Overcoming common challenges and resistance during VSM exercises.
• Applying VSM to a project portfolio or program level.
• Using digital VSM tools and software for remote or complex mapping.
• Personal action plan for integrating VSM into current project management practices.

CERTIFICATION

• Upon successful completion of this training, participants will be issued with Macskills Training and Development Institute Certificate

TRAINING VENUE

• Training will be held at Macskills Training Centre. We also tailor make the training upon request at different locations across the world.

AIRPORT PICK UP AND ACCOMMODATION

• Airport pick up and accommodation is arranged upon request

TERMS OF PAYMENT

Payment should be made to Macskills Development Institute bank account before the start of the training and receipts sent to info@macskillsdevelopment.com