What system delivers a product or service to a Customer? Explain it briefly and choose correct one
a. Dual Operating System.
b. Development Value Stream.
c. Operational Value Stream.
d. Kanban System.
The correct answer and explanation is :
The correct answer is c. Operational Value Stream.
Explanation:
An Operational Value Stream (OVS) is a key concept in Lean management and refers to the series of steps that an organization takes to deliver a product or service to a customer. It represents the activities that directly contribute to providing value to the customer, starting from the identification of customer needs all the way through to the delivery of the finished product or service. This stream includes all the processes, resources, and interactions required to produce and deliver value to the customer.
In Lean thinking, the focus is on identifying and optimizing the value stream by eliminating waste (non-value-adding activities), improving flow, and ensuring that each step contributes to fulfilling customer needs in the most efficient manner possible. The goal is to maximize value while minimizing cost and effort.
An Operational Value Stream can include various elements, such as:
- Raw materials or inputs: These could be physical goods or intellectual property.
- Manufacturing or service delivery: This is where the transformation of inputs into finished products or services happens.
- Distribution and delivery: Ensuring the product reaches the customer in a timely and effective manner.
- Post-delivery support: Activities related to customer service, maintenance, and product updates.
For instance, in a software company, an OVS would include everything from the development of a software product (coding, testing, debugging) to its release and subsequent support, aiming to deliver value to the customer.
Other options:
- Dual Operating System: This refers to an organization’s ability to operate both in an agile, innovative manner (focused on adaptability) and in a more traditional, stable manner (focused on efficiency). It’s not directly about delivering a product or service to the customer.
- Development Value Stream: This focuses on the process of creating and improving the product or service itself, but it doesn’t encompass the entire process of delivering it to the customer.
- Kanban System: Kanban is a method used to manage and optimize workflows, particularly in the context of work in progress. While it’s valuable for managing work items within value streams, it doesn’t directly describe the delivery process.
In summary, the Operational Value Stream is the correct answer because it describes the actual delivery process, encompassing all steps required to get a product or service to the customer.