What is the start point for a manufacturing value chain?

The start point for a manufacturing value chain is identified as operations. This is because operations encompass the core processes involved in transforming raw materials into finished goods. In the context of a manufacturing value chain, operations refer to the activities that include production, assembly, and quality control, which are critical for delivering value to customers through the final product.

Starting with operations allows manufacturers to focus on the efficiency and effectiveness of their production processes, which are essential to meet market demands and create products that fulfill customer needs. It implies a strong internal foundation where resources are managed, workflows are optimized, and product quality is ensured, all of which are pivotal to succeeding in a competitive marketplace.

The other aspects such as inbound logistics, which includes the receipt and handling of materials before operations, or the customers' value proposition, which pertains to how a product or service meets customer expectations, come into play after the operational processes are defined. Although these elements are important parts of the value chain, they typically rely on the established operations to create value and drive the manufacturing process forward. Starting with operations establishes a crucial groundwork in the manufacturing value chain.