How is a value stream defined in business architecture?

A value stream in business architecture is defined as a collection of stages that work together to create value for a customer from the beginning to the end of a process. This concept emphasizes the understanding of how various activities and steps contribute to delivering a product or service that meets customer needs and expectations.

By mapping out a value stream, organizations can identify areas for improvement, eliminate waste, and enhance the efficiency of their processes, ultimately leading to increased customer satisfaction and loyalty. The end-to-end aspect highlights the holistic view of all activities, from the initial input to the final delivery, illustrating how value is generated throughout the entire customer journey.

This definition captures not just the operational aspect of these processes but also places significant emphasis on the customer perspective, which is central to business architecture. This focus on value creation aligns closely with the objectives of business architecture to align business strategy with operational effectiveness.