Value Stream mapping is a lean and six sigma tool used to visually understand the flow of materials and information for a given process or set of activities.  The value stream map includes both information and material or service flows that identify value added and non value added activities.  A value stream map is a fundamental tool used to lead waste reduction projects, cycle time reductions and other improvement activities.  

​  Before this powerful tool gained the name value stream map it was referred to as a material and information flow diagram or map by Toyota.

​  Kaikaku, sometimes called Kakushin, is a Japanese Lean term meaning radical improvement in a limited time. It is a philosophy centered around creating more value and less waste in production by implementing major changes. Innovation is key to Kaikaku, and innovating new processes, new products, new management practices, and new machines can have a huge impact on the facility as a whole.