The value stream method comes from Lean Management theory and is widespread today to make production leaner, reduce throughput times and avoid waste. The value stream method is integrated into the IMSolution modules.

The digital value stream method in IMSolution

The integrated digital value stream designer in the IMSolution modules enables you to perform all the steps of the value stream method (value stream mapping, value stream design, value stream planning) digitally. There are numerous benefits to this:

Quick mapping of value streams in production

With the IMApp value stream designer you record data from production quickly and easily with mobile touch-screen devices – you can also take photos and record videos (value stream recording, value stream mapping). You also set up future state value streams on the touch-screen device (value stream planning).

Linking value streams to existing production data

In the IMDesigner module you can also set up CURRENT STATE and FUTURE STATE value streams. You also use existing production data for this.

Dynamic observation of value streams

In the IMValidation module in just a few steps you create simulation modules to observe your value streams over time. This gives you new key performance indicators and insight.

Analysis and comparison of value streams

You use the IMAnalyzer module for mapping, comparing and evaluating your value streams. This allows you to quickly identify the most effective steps to optimize your processes.

Goodbye to time-consuming follow-up processing and digitalisation

In the past, to use the data from the traditional value stream method on paper again, it had to first be digitalised manually. This step is no longer necessary, as you work digitally from the outset.

Connected data

The data on your value streams is linked to the existing production data. If there are changes to your products, processes or resources, these changes can be mapped straight away in the value stream. Vice versa, changes to your value stream can be included in your digital factory model.

Benefits of the digital value stream method

By using the digital value stream designer you optimize the information and material flows between individual sections of production just as you do between processes and supply chains covering more than one plant. Key performance indicators allow you to identify the most effective improvement measure with certainly. When used regularly, this generates closed-loop continuous improvement.

Examples of short and long-term benefits:

• Sell more: if your value stream is optimized you free up capacities to satisfy increasing demand without increasing your personnel costs.

• Reduce overtime: thanks to freed-up capacity you can avoid costly overtime. 

• In-sourcing: freed-up capacity enables you to carry out value-adding activities you had outsourced in-house again. 

• With saved space you can increase your production without investing in new halls. 

• Increased safety reduces costs due to injuries. 

• Shorter transport distances allow you to save on transport vehicles and their operating costs.

• The higher quality of your products means your guarantee and repair costs decrease and your customers are happier. 

• Through reduced stockpiling, less of your capital is tied up and you increase your cash flow. 

• Knowledge and new insights can flow into future products and lead to many savings right from the start.

Next steps

• Read more about the evaluation possibilities for your value streams in the IMAnalyzer.

• Find out about other optimization opportunities.

• You’d like to try out the Value Stream Designer App? Register for a free demo account.

Interested? Questions? Comments? – Then get in touch with us!