Translating value stream maps into system dynamics models: a practical framework

One of the best-known tools from Lean Thinking is the Value Stream Mapping (VSM), which stands for a visual modelling approach allowing the identification of critical steps in a supply chain, thus helping to identify organisational bottlenecks and wastes. Despite its relevance, VSM is based on a static report from the time the mapping was performed. To add dynamism to VSM analysis, computer-based simulations can be employed; however, little is done in the domain of Systems Dynamics (SD), a known modelling approach usually employed to get insights about stock and flows behaviour. In this context, this research aims to propose a practical framework called VSM-to-SD to help modellers easily translate VSM into System Dynamics quantitative models using the notation of two known modelling tools on the market, namely Stella^(C) and Vensim^(C). To demonstrate its usefulness and ease-of-use, a proof-of-concept is developed in an industrial case study. Results suggest the efficiency of the VSM-to-SD framework, including its ability to straightforwardly generate simulation-based VSM, allowing analytic comparisons of different simulation scenarios, and expanding the analytic decision-making capacity of managers desiring to go further than traditional and static VSM.