virtauskartoitukset

Virtauskartoitukset, or flow mapping, is a technique used to visualize and analyze the movement of something, typically materials, information, or people, through a system or process. The primary goal is to understand the current state, identify bottlenecks, and discover opportunities for improvement.

In a manufacturing context, flow mapping often tracks the path of raw materials from their arrival at a facility, through various production stages, to the shipment of finished goods. This can reveal inefficiencies in material handling, excessive work-in-progress inventory, or delays in specific workstations. Similarly, in service industries, flow mapping can illustrate the customer journey, from initial contact to service completion, highlighting areas where customer experience might be negatively impacted.

The process typically involves observing the system in action, documenting each step, and then representing this sequence graphically. This can range from simple hand-drawn diagrams to sophisticated software-generated simulations. Key elements often included in a flow map are the different locations or steps, the items or people moving between them, the time taken for each step, and any waiting periods.

By visually representing the flow, organizations can gain a clearer understanding of their operations. This clarity is crucial for identifying waste, reducing lead times, improving quality, and ultimately enhancing overall efficiency and customer satisfaction. Flow mapping serves as a foundational tool for many process improvement methodologies, such as Lean and Six Sigma.