We're in a globalized market. Supply chain complexity is at an all-time high. Companies must manage multi-tier supplier relationships, balance production across various locations, and navigate challenges ranging from geopolitical risks to natural disasters.
This complexity calls for advanced tools that can not only map these intricate processes but also provide real-time insights for proactive decision-making. That’s where eVSM, a solution designed for supply network value stream mapping, comes in.
VSM Tools for Complex Manufacturing
eVSM allows large businesses to visualize the flow of materials and information across their entire supply network. Our clients, which include a quarter of Fortune 500 companies, get a detailed view of processes at each stage.
But we’re getting ahead of ourselves a little. Let’s take a look at the differences between value stream mapping for factories, and the advanced software needed for supply network value stream mapping.
Factory VSM vs. Supply Network Mapping
Traditional value stream mapping (VSM) tools often focus solely on factory-level operations. eVSM provides robust tools for value stream mapping across multiple industries. But it goes further than that, even.
eVSM supply network VSM software extends to multi-location networks, which means companies can map and optimize parallel processes across suppliers, warehouses, and distribution centers.
This capability is critical for modern manufacturers with dispersed operations and the need to understand how disruptions in one area of the supply network can impact the entire value stream.
Using Visio for Value Stream Mapping and Supply Network Maps
Have you ever wondered if Visio - which is a familiar diagramming tool to many - could be used for deep value stream maps and supply network maps? Well, it can. eVSM is built on the Visio platform, with all the Lean tools you need for visual process mapping.
Building on Visio’s intuitive interface, eVSM adds robust functionality for manufacturing VSM, allowing users to model complex, multi-stage production processes with ease.
This integration means users can quickly create value stream maps that capture the intricacies of their supply network, from raw materials sourcing to finished goods distribution.
Supply Network Maps with Parallel Processes
Another key feature of eVSM is its ability to handle VSM parallel processes, which are often found in global supply chains. Parallel processes—where multiple streams of activities occur simultaneously—are common in large-scale manufacturing operations but can be difficult to manage using traditional value stream mapping methods.
eVSM simplifies the process by enabling users to track and optimize these concurrent workflows. This means bottlenecks are identified and addressed before they cause costly delays. By simulating different scenarios, such as adjusting supplier lead times or rerouting logistics, companies can test the impact of changes without disrupting their actual supply network.
Here’s a classic example any of our Fortune 500 clients could run into: they might have a factory producing parts in a location that they know is facing an impending labor strike at the dockyards. So they want to mitigate risk by diverting 20% of their purchases to a second supplier in a completely different country, but at an increased cost.
Real-time Data in Value Stream Mapping
In addition to its powerful mapping capabilities, eVSM also supports that type of data-driven decision-making by integrating real-time analytics and reporting tools. Users can track key performance indicators (KPIs) related to their supply chain and instantly visualize areas that require improvement. Supply chain managers can use eVSM to quickly reconfigure their value stream and mitigate the impact. By continuously monitoring performance and adjusting strategies in real-time, eVSM enables companies to build resilient supply chains that can adapt to global risks.
Value stream mapping software the key to mitigating risk
Supply chain disruptions can have far-reaching consequences. Having a tool like eVSM to monitor, map, and optimize your supply network is so important that when CEOs see our software in action, they'll often mandate its use company-wide. Tailored for the complexities of modern manufacturing, eVSM offers incredible capabilities in supply network value stream mapping. With its focus on parallel processes, multi-location tracking, and real-time data, eVSM is an indispensable tool for businesses looking to stay agile and competitive in today’s volatile global market.