How many wastes are identified in lean value stream mapping?

In lean value stream mapping, the identification of seven types of waste is a fundamental concept. These wastes, known as the "Seven Wastes," are critical to understanding inefficiencies within a process and are categorized as:

1. Overproduction

2. Waiting

3. Transport

4. Extra processing

5. Inventory

6. Motion

7. Defects

The aim of identifying these wastes is to streamline processes, improve efficiency, and enhance overall value creation for the customer. By focusing on these seven areas, organizations can apply lean principles to systematically reduce waste and maximize productivity. Recognizing and addressing these wastes is essential in the continuous improvement journey that lean methodology advocates.

While the other options like nine or eleven might reference other categories of waste sometimes recognized in broader lean or Six Sigma contexts, the foundational model for lean value stream mapping specifically emphasizes these seven wastes. Thus, selecting this number emphasizes the core principles of lean practices effectively.