Lean service system design: a simulation-based VSM case study
Business Process Management Journal
ISSN: 1463-7154
Article publication date: 18 December 2018
Issue publication date: 2 October 2019
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to present a methodology for using simulation models together with value stream mapping (VSM) for designing lean service systems and illustrate it with a case study.
Design/methodology/approach
The authors propose a methodology combining simulation and VSM. Simulation models for both current and future states are developed to validate the results of the corresponding maps of current and future states, respectively.
Findings
The results illustrate the advantages of the suggested design represented by the future state map. Additionally, using simulation models together with VSM for validating current and future states also allows decision makers to perform comprehensive analyses on the system and draw statistical conclusions.
Originality/value
Although some lean applications in educational services exist in previous studies, according to the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is the first one combining VSM and simulation for the implementation of the lean concepts in the construction and technical services of a public university.
Keywords
Acknowledgements
This work was supported by the Scientific Research Projects Unit (BAP) of Uludag University under Grant No. KUAP(M)-2013/19. The authors would like to thank to Uludag University Administration and the employees of the Office of Construction and Technical Services of Uludag University for their support.
Citation
Cavdur, F., Yagmahan, B., Oguzcan, E., Arslan, N. and Sahan, N. (2019), "Lean service system design: a simulation-based VSM case study", Business Process Management Journal, Vol. 25 No. 7, pp. 1802-1821. https://doi.org/10.1108/BPMJ-02-2018-0057
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2018, Emerald Publishing Limited