Value networks are the way people naturally come together around roles and resources to work together. The value network method of modeling and analysis reflects the true nature of work activity with a systemic human-network approach to managing business operations.
Value Network Analysis (VNA)
Value network modeling is often refered to as Value Network Analysis (VNA). It was developed by Verna Allee in the 1990s and has been made an open resource through her books and numerous academic articles. Since 1993 the value network approach has been gaining business results in performance across many different industries - from shop-floor work teams to global action networks.
VNA uses a basic network modeling approach of nodes and links to show collaborative relationships, analyze value transactions, and visualize critical "flow" sequences.
In VNA, nodes represent contributing roles and participants and are usually shown with ovals.
Links are shown with directional arrows that represent transactions, interactions between roles. A label on the transaction arrow represents a specific value deliverable that is being conveyed from one role to another. This simple convention of a one directional arrow for each deliverable makes it possible to sequence each interaction in the value creating activity.
An Example
In the map below, tangible deliverables (meaning contractual or formal deliverables) are shown with green arrows. Intangible (meaning informal or unstructured) deliverables are shown with blue arrows.
The example shows the roles and interactions involved in scheduling procedures in a healthcare clinic. The transactions have been numbered to show the sequence of the activity. By reading the sequence numbers the "story" of the activity is revealed.
