Using VSM for DevOps improvements
In Chapter 5, Driving Business Value through a DevOps Pipeline, you learned how to apply a generic eight-step VSM methodology to any VSM improvement initiative. We used that same eight-step approach in our CI/CD pipeline improvement use case in Chapter 6, Launching the VSM Initiative (VSM Steps 1-3), through Chapter 10, Improving the Lean-Agile Value Delivery Cycle (VSM Steps 7 and 8). There is no reason we cannot use that same eight-step methodology to guide DevOps pipeline improvements.
Still, the VSM Consortium recommends a slightly different roadmap for VSM implementations related to making improvements across DevOps activities and toolchains, as shown in the following figure:
Figure 16.1 – VSM Consortium – A VSM Implementation Roadmap
In the VSM Implementation Roadmap, you can see similarities to both Lean and Agile improvement concepts. In fact, it's an amalgamation of both practices.
