A seasoned value stream mapping facilitator, Karen Martin, shares insights into effective process mapping for manufacturing companies. The discussion walks through the multi-staged process, emphasizing the importance of the charter phase, defining the present and future state, collecting and understanding data, the role of leadership, and creating transformation plans. Karen discusses the ideal team composition for mapping, how to manage the level of detail, and ways to ensure that improvements are aligned with key business metrics. Throughout the conversation, Karen highlights the necessity of having an outside, skilled facilitator for the successful execution of value stream mapping.