8.11.2011

Mapping the Process -- Finding the Waste

Robert Damelio published a second edition of his best selling book The Basics of Process Mapping this year, and I recently spoke with him about it. I asked him: "While you were developing the second edition of your book, which of the most important concepts in your book still often gets misunderstood?" Here is Robert's reply:

One of the most important (and often misunderstood) properties of work is "waste." Those familiar with the cost of poor quality concept often tend to equate “waste” with defects, rework, returns, inspection, appraisal, failure in test or operation, etc. In general these are forms of waste related to work outputs.

It turns out that more forms of waste, and much greater cost are associated with the resources used and applied during a work activity. This is why waste is defined as any work that does not create value as perceived by the customer.

Here is a table from the new edition of Robert's book that illustrates his points:


What do you think of Robert's table? Do you think his definitions and examples are accurate? What are your experiences with process maps? Do they help diagnose and improve work?

12 comments:

Anonymous said...

"his definitions and examples"?

Sorry. This are examples out of the toyotas production system / lean production. This isn´t new.

Anonymous said...

experiences with process maps? Do they help diagnose and improve work?

I work in a company that develops software and unlike factory work, most of our work is not easy to see. We find process maps very helpful with cross functional teams to show what happens (or doesn't happen) as the product is passed off from team to team.

7 Wastes said...

Thank for introduce the good selling book and thank for your valuable article , it's make me more understanding in "What is wastes"

Scm Guy said...

Robert's Table seems to be wastes from office environment only. Anyway, they're also good guideline.

Logistics said...

I think it's quite practical.

Anonymous said...

The deep, nutty aroma of the toasted sesame seeds was potent, filling our car for the first hour of our ride home (or at least until we http://www.bestessays.com/write-my-essay.php got used to it).

Lipozene said...

I like the cut of your job :) or at least your thought process but sorry to say, I honestly think you would have fully sold me on the idea had you been able to back up your premis with a substantial bit more solid facts.

Tutors in USA said...

This is really remarkable chance for me to visit such an informative blog, it proved really helpful for me.

Thailand Real Estate said...

Great blog, all posts have something to learn. Your work is very good and i appreciate you and hopping for some more informative posts. Keep writing.

Lipozene Reviews said...

Another great post, I appreciate all the work you put into this site, helping out others with your fun and creative works.

ali said...

Really your blog is very interesting.... it contains great and unique information. I enjoyed to visiting your blog. It's just amazing.... Thanks very much

Accredited GED Diploma Program said...

Hmmm . . . great to be here in your article or post, whatever, I believe I should also additionally work hard for my personal website as I see some high-quality and updated working in your website.

Visit: Accredited GED Diploma Program