Minimization of waste by applying value stream mapping in the supply chain of cement industry

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to identify and address various wastes or non-value added activities in the supply chain of a cement industry using a value stream mapping (VSM). Critical observations and interviewing techniques were used with open-ended questions to understand the processes involved in the value chain of the cement industry. There is an overproduction, excess inventory and information delays in the whole supply chain. Waste or non-value added activities removal from the cement-processing sector is one key to improving the productivity of the sector. The paper addresses the various wastes or non-value added activities in the processing side of the supply chain of a cement industry, using VSM as an approach which was hardly ever attempted before.