What does value stream mapping visually represent?

Value stream mapping is a lean management tool that visually represents the flow of materials and information throughout a production process. It helps to identify waste, enhance efficiency, and streamline operations by mapping out each step in the process from raw material to finished product. This visualization allows teams to see how various elements within the production process interconnect, making it easier to pinpoint areas for improvement and reduce non-value-adding activities.

Both the flow of materials and the information involved are crucial because they set the basis for understanding how efficiently a process operates and where bottlenecks or delays might occur. By focusing on both aspects in the value stream map, organizations can better understand the overall system dynamics and improve communication and coordination among different departments.

The other options highlight important business elements but do not align with the primary focus of value stream mapping. Financial flow pertains to the monetary aspects of operations, which is not the primary concern of value stream mapping. The physical layout of the manufacturing plant is a separate topic that deals with spatial arrangement rather than process flow. Lastly, while distribution channels are essential for product delivery, they are not what value stream mapping specifically illustrates. The emphasis on materials and information flow makes option C the most accurate representation of what value stream mapping aims to convey.