What does a thick straight striped horizontal arrow represent in a value stream map?

In the context of value stream mapping, a thick straight striped horizontal arrow specifically represents push arrows, which indicate that materials or products are pushed through the process from one step to the next. This visualization suggests that production is based on a predetermined schedule or batch size rather than actual customer demand, making it a critical aspect of understanding the flow of materials and information within a process.

Push systems often lead to excess inventory and can contribute to inefficiencies if not well-managed. Distinguishing between push and pull systems is vital in Lean practices, where the goal is often to align production more closely with customer demand and reduce waste. Therefore, identifying push arrows in a value stream map helps practitioners recognize areas where improvements can be made to increase efficiency and responsiveness to customer needs.