The software has been designed from the outset to complement the lean implementation methodologies in the Shingo award-winning workbooks from the Lean Enterprise Institute and in particular the best-selling publication "Learning To See". Click here to see the current set of workbooks from LEI. eVSM provides comprehensive support for the mapping, calculations, box scores and charts in these workbooks. Click here to see the free eLearning site.

eVSM was featured on Microsoft TechNet with a live webcast titled "Visualize, Analyze, and Manage a LEAN Transformation Using Value Stream Maps".

Click to see a 50 minute webcast

Drawing Value Stream Maps

This current state value stream map for a lean manufacturing initiative can be drawn in 20 minutes, complete with data. The map and data values are easy to see and easy to modify.

Using Gadgets to Visualize Value Stream Data

It took just 4 clicks to add/size the family of red bar gadgets to visualize the NVA times on this map. Visual gadgets can be added to any map variables and have a hide/show capability.

Visual gadgets that are "in-place" on the map and update with map data are a new eVSM innovation that really helps to "see" and make decisions about value stream characteristics.

Using Charts to Visualize Value Stream Data

It was easy to draw the cycle time/takt time chart for this map because the integrated charting tool has been designed to support typical lean charts including Pareto charts.

This chart setup took 20 seconds and then the chart could be applied to the current or new maps with just 2 clicks. Any map data can be charted.

Using Spaghetti Diagrams to Visualize Motion

This floor layout was simply pasted into eVSM as a picture and then paths drawn on top to show the motion.

Motion paths were color-coded and then a report generated with automatic path length calculation.

Pictures from Google Earth or other mapping tools can be used instead of floor plans when dealing with Enterprise material flows

Analyzing the flow

This spreadsheet corresponding to the map is created with one button click. Results of calculations in Excel are automatically redisplayed on the map.

Lean calculation relating to lead time, inventory cost and capacity can be carried out directly using the map data. Equations can be entered in Excel or can be created by picking data directly on the map.

Lean Management

The Current State map can be easily copied and modified to create a future state map. The maps can be combined and presented as a storyboard (or value stream board) for lean management complete with data on team members, targets, steps & milestones.

This starting storyboard was developed in just 15 minutes. eVSM also includes an integrated A3 tool for use in mini-projects that improve the value stream

The eVSM software can be used “out of the box” but additional gains are possible with a standardized deployment at corporations. It's easy to create and deploy standardized templates for maps, metrics, units, tables and storyboards for consistent and productive usage by lean practitioners.