How many wastes are identified in lean value stream mapping?

In lean value stream mapping, seven types of waste are identified, which are essential to understanding and optimizing processes by reducing non-value-adding activities. These wastes, known in lean methodology as "muda," include overproduction, waiting, transporting, inappropriate processing, unnecessary inventory, motion, and defects. By systematically eliminating these wastes, organizations can improve efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance overall process quality.

Understanding these seven wastes is crucial for anyone engaged in process improvement, as it helps highlight areas for potential enhancement and drives initiatives aimed at refining and streamlining workflows. While variations of lean thinking may refer to additional categories or considerations in specific contexts, the foundational principle established by the original lean framework distinctly identifies seven key areas of waste.