This workshop demonstrates how the Product Development process can be redesigned based on lean concepts using value stream mapping. A review of value stream mapping is provided to develop the necessary skills of the participants to create a "current state map" of the existing design process. Then a thorough review of Lean Product Development concepts is provided. Concepts reviewed include: "voice of the customer", re-using existing knowledge , rapid learning cycles, narrowing design alternatives, concurrent engineering, standard work, and flow processing. Contrasts to traditional design methodologies are also explored.

The Lean Product Development concepts are applied to develop a lean "future state map" for the product design process. This is done in the context of seven future state questions - a structured approach to design the new process. Participants will learn in-depth the intent of each question, while expanding their understanding of the basic lean concepts of value, flow, pull, leveling, and "pitch".

Finally, implementation strategies will be reviewed to successfully implement the envisioned future state. A case study will be provided to help hone the participants' value stream mapping skills. The concepts reviewed can also be applied to transaction-oriented design-related processes such as configuration control, engineering change orders, product validation, design release, etc.

The workshop is based on the book "Value Stream Mapping the Lean Development Process: A How-to Guide to Streamlining Time to Market" by Drew Locher (Productivity Press, 2008)

Who should attend: anyone in an organization who designs products or delivers engineering services, including management. Product Designers, engineering support personnel, even representatives for manufacturing, purchasing and cost accounting can benefit by attending this workshop.