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

Determining customer requirements is a foundational step in developing a value stream mapping because it establishes the basis for understanding what adds value from the customer's perspective. This step ensures that any processes identified and mapped will ultimately align with customer needs and expectations, making it clear what constitutes value and what does not.

By starting with customer requirements, organizations can focus their efforts on delivering the features and services that truly matter to customers, thus prioritizing the relevant aspects of their processes. This approach helps identify which elements of the process should be enhanced or modified to improve overall value delivery.

Once customer requirements are clear, the mapping process can proceed to analyze existing processes, identify waste, or document the current state, but without first understanding what the customer values, these subsequent steps may lack direction and relevance.