Elimination of Waste in the Value Stream
Since the value stream originates from Lean software development, it prioritises removing any unnecessary work from the development process. The team regularly examines their processes, and considers what is absolutely imperative. Anything else can be removed, in order to improve efficiency, while maintaining the same end result. A working software feature as the ultimate goal is the top priority of any software development organisation, so the exact steps and processes to reach that goal are adaptable.
By eliminating waste, the team reduces the effort and time required on any request. Reducing effort and time allows the team to create features more efficiently. More efficient development improves the value stream, and allows shorter time from request to working feature.
Value Stream Map and Work Visibility
The value stream map displays all work in progress for a project or team. It includes where a feature is in the process, what work has already been done, and what remains to be finished. By displaying all this information in one place, anyone on the team can quickly look at the value stream map and see the status of any given work item. Additionally, they can see where gaps in work might exist, and redistribute work as necessary.
Improving visibility with the value stream map also improves efficiency for all steps in the process. Each role and group can see where features are, and what when each work item is due. By understanding what work comes next, each group can prepare and not waste time reacting to each new item they receive.
Creating the Value Stream Map
As valuable as the value stream map is, it does take work to create. Each team member must consistently update their work on the value stream map, so that other teams get an accurate representation of where the work is, and what else must be done before it moves to the next step.
There are many tools and utilities available to create and manage a value stream map. Digital Kanban boards allow teams to collaborate on work, and make the value stream map visible to everyone. Some teams may allow access from each member’s own workstation, while others have a central board that teams can convene around and discuss together at a single physical location.
Traditional teams can even use physical boards, with sticky notes or some other paper representation of work. Each team member moves their item across the board as the work is finished, so the board represents the most current information on the value stream map. If someone needs information on a request or feature, the value stream map shows exactly where it is in process, and who to ask for more information about it.
Work visibility is important in nearly any industry. By communicating information to all team members, groups can work together more efficiently and create better products more quickly.