Value Methodology
A Presentation to the American Society for Quality
Michael D S Blois AVS
What is the Value Methodology?
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Value Methodology (VM)
z known as value engineering, value analysis, and value management z originated in the 1940s z uses function analysis to improve projects, products, and processes z since 1996 the use of VM is required by law for all Federal Agencies.
How does VM work?
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Reduce complicated projects into basic components by analyzing its functions. Identifying the functions of components and systems leads to identifying better ways to accomplish project goals at the lowest life cycle cost.
Common misconceptions
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VM cheapens projects. VM creates adversity. VM ignored the design professionals concept. VM is a bureaucratic conspiracy. VM is a pain in the #@%*!
The owners perspective
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The budget is fixed. No change orders! We need it yesterday. Local economy is important. Respect our traditions. Meet code requirements. No complications!
The designers perspective
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Today it is not unusual for project to exceed established budgets during the design process. Designers are not known for their cost estimating skills.
Understanding the Problem
How VM defines Value
The reliable performance of that which a product or process must do to make it work and sell at the least possible life cycle cost.
How VM defines Function
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A generic description of what needs to be accomplished without identification of a specific means of accomplishment.
Function Analysis Four Steps
1.
2.
3.
4.
Define the Functions occurring in the project/task and categorize the type of functions. Organize the Functions into a Function Analysis System Technique (FAST) Diagram. The FAST diagram is prepared to show a visual image of interrelationship of the various functions. Develop Cost/Function relationships by assigning costs to the various functions. Through this process, the team can evaluate which functions have excessive cost and do not provide good value to the customer. Identify Functions Requiring Improvement.
Defining Functions
All functions can be defined in two words: An Active Verb and a Measurable Noun Examples of functions for various types of studies: Item: Automobile Refrigerator Foundation Road Function: Transport People Cools Air Support Structure Routes Vehicles
Function Analysis System Technique (FAST) Diagram
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Shows specific relationships of all functions with respect to each other. Not to be confused with a process flow diagram. Tests the validity of the functions under study z Asks How from left to right z Asks Why from right to left; this is a check on the FAST logic Helps identify missing functions Broadens understanding of the project under study. Helps integrate the VM study team.
MOUSETRAP
OBJECTIVE
FUNCTION ANALYSIS SYSTEM TECHNIQUE (FAST) DIAGRAM
<<< WHY?
HOW? >>> DISCOURAGE RESIDENCY ATTRACT MOUSE BAIT TRAP SET TRIGGER POSITION STRIKER STRIKER OBTAIN PREDATOR TRIGGER RELEASE ENERGY SPRING STORE ENERGY COMPRESS SPRING LOCATE TRAP
ELIMINATE MICE
KILL MOUSE
STRIKE MOUSE
RELEASE STRIKER
TRIP TRIGGER
ARM TRAP
PREPARE TRAP
MOUSE HIGHER ORDER FUNCTION BAIT BASIC FUNCTION SECONDARY FUNCTIONS
ACTIVITIES
After: Kaufman & Woodhead
How VM handles Cost
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There is always a better way to do anything. The secret is to understand functions Use the life cycle cost approach. And then determine best value! Best value does not mean cost cutting.
Value and Cost are not the same!
Value Methodology relates Values to Functions. Example The Diamond Tie Clip Tie Clip Costs $1000 The Paper Clip Paper Clip Costs 1/10
They both perform the same function of Prevent Separation, therefore, they have equal value. However the Diamond Tie Clip also has an aesthetic function of Display Status.
The VM job plan
The job plan is composed of six phases:
1. 2. 3. 4.
Information Phase Function Analysis Phase Creative Phase Evaluation Phase Development Phase Presentation Phase
Develop Baseline Establish Functions Generate Ideas Identify & Weight Criteria, Rank Ideas Develop Alternatives Present Recommendations to Management
5. 6.
Whos on the VM team?
Study Team Leader (CVS)
Design Team
PROJECT, PRODUCT, OR PROCESS UNDER STUDY
Customer
Client
VM Workshop
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Collaborative effort Multi discipline team Subject matter experts, for example
z Cost Estimating z Safety and Health z Engineers z Scientists z etc
Presentation and Report
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Team identifies their top alternatives Presentation to decision makers Achieve total buy in ROI for VM studies often > 20 : 1 Good value = everyone wins
Who likes Chinese food ??
SAVE International
Mission: To promote the use of the Value Methodology worldwide. Vision: To have the Value Methodology recognized worldwide as the premier approach for improving projects, products, and processes.
It isnt a REAL VALUE STUDY without a CERTIFIED VALUE PROFESSIONAL.
Thank you!
SAVE International thanks its dedicated members for their contributions to promotion of and education in the Value Methodology.
