Lean at support functions: from steering to supporting

We hear a lot about optimizing (horizontal) value stream. However, the horizontal flow is quite determined by the efficiency of (vertical) support functions like HR, Finance, Quality, Purchasing, Staffing, etc. We decided to not accept it as given constraint and dig into it by triggering Lean@SupportFunctions initiative. We aim to improve the integration of the internal flow into the value stream and make the internal support functions value driven and business aware. In this presentation we share the results and experiences of applying the same Lean approach to the internal support functions.