[Measure and Improve Deployment Management] An IT service manager is analyzing a value stream that is used to deploy new and changed services. The…

When evaluating a value stream map, the fundamental activity is to analyze each step to determine if it adds value from the customer's perspective. This involves classifying steps as 'value-adding,' 'non-value-adding but necessary,' or 'waste.' By first establishing what value is created in each step, the manager can then effectively identify non-value-adding activities (waste) that can be improved or eliminated. This value assessment is the core of the evaluation phase and the foundation for planning improvements.

Collect data about what happens in each workflow step: This is part of creating the initial 'current state' map, which the manager has already done by identifying the steps.

Identify wasteful steps that could be eliminated: This is a direct outcome of the evaluation, but it can only be done after first defining and establishing what constitutes value.

Define an ideal series of workflow steps for the future: This is part of creating the 'future state' map, which is a subsequent activity performed after the current state has been evaluated.

- AXELOS. (2021). ITIL® 4 Practitioner: Deployment Management. TSO (The Stationery Office). Section 5.3.2, 'How to create a value stream map', Step 4 'Evaluate the workflow steps'. The text states, "For each step, the team should establish what value is created... The team should also identify steps that do not contribute to the value stream and which could be eliminated."