Value Streams Mapping in the Implementation of Process Innovations – in the Case of Single–Unit Production

The visual management technique used in process improvement, i.e. value stream mapping (VSM) has been presented in the paper. Value stream mapping is one of the basic management tools in the context of Lean Management or Lean Production. It allows to visualize the flow of decision, information, material and their connections in the full production cycle (from the order, through planning, production, to shipping to the customer). VSM is a lean tool that gives the ability to create flows in the process before implementing changes. In this paper, the possibilities of changes planning based on the current and future status maps have been discussed. On the basis of the current state map (CSM), the areas requiring improvement and operations which efficiency is decisive and for the process have been designated. Particular attention has been paid to the possibilities of using VSM in unit production processes. In the paper has been proposed the two possibilities for company development in terms of the improvement technique in line with the Kaizen philosophy as well as the implementation of process innovations. Which means balanced development through the improvement of the existing process or an acute development strategy through the implementation of process innovations (which involves significant costs).