What should be the first step in developing value stream mapping?

The first step in developing value stream mapping is to enter customer requirements. This approach is vital because value stream mapping focuses on understanding the flow of materials and information necessary to deliver value to the customer. By identifying customer requirements, organizations can clearly define what constitutes value in their processes. This ensures the mapping process is directed towards eliminating waste and enhancing those activities that contribute directly to meeting customer needs.

Understanding customer requirements also helps in prioritizing which aspects of the process are most critical and should be mapped first. With a clear picture of what customers expect, the team can more effectively identify areas of improvement within the current processes to align them better with those expectations.

The other choices, while important aspects of process evaluation, do not set the foundational context for value stream mapping. Identifying resources might come later in the process when you are analyzing how to allocate what is needed to improve the value stream. Evaluating process performance is essential for assessment but should occur after establishing what the customer values. Analyzing competitor strategies can inform the process but is less direct in understanding the specific needs of the customer from the outset.