Value stream mapping involves first developing a baseline map of the current situation of a companys external and/or internal operations, and then applying lean concepts, developing a future state map that shows improved operations. Exhibit 14.16, for example, shows the current state with a production lead time of 4.5 days. This system is a batch/push system, resulting in long delays and inventory buildups. Exhibit 14.17 shows the future state map with a production lead time of 0.25 day. This was accomplished by moving to a continuous-flow pull system and attacking the seven wastes.

1. Eliminating the queue of work dramatically quickens the time it takes a part to flow through the system. What are the disadvantages of removing those queues?
2. How do you think the machine operators would react to the change?
3. What would you do to ensure that the operators were kept busy?

Map of the Current Ctsto Map of the Future Ctatn