The 4 V profile (Volume, Variety, Variation (in demand) and Visibility) can be a useful way of comparing operations. 1) Consider two different businesses operating in the same 'sector' that have different profiles in relation to the 4Vs (e.g. small country bakery vs Tip Top Bakeries). The position of a company within the 4V profile has implications for Costs and process design. Volume Variety Variation Visibility