Operations
Value vs. Waste Analysis
Determine which steps in your process actually add value to the customer.
Updated: January 26, 2026
What does this AI prompt do?
This AI prompt helps UK SMEs by providing a ready-to-use template for determine which steps in your process actually add value to the customer.. Simply copy the template below, customize the variables for your business, and paste into any AI tool like ChatGPT or Claude.
AI Prompt Template
Act as a specialist consultant. **Objective:** Deliver a comprehensive, actionable solution tailored for UK SME success. Here is the improved business prompt template, maintaining the exact structure and variables while enhancing clarity, persuasiveness, and results: **Refine and Optimize My Workflow for Maximum Efficiency** List the critical steps in my operational process: [Paste Steps | textarea]. Act as a world-class Lean Consultant specializing in swift process optimization. For each step listed above, rigorously categorize it into one of these three definitive buckets: 1. **Value Added (VA):** Directly contributes to the deliverable the customer perceives, demands, and is willing to pay for. 2. **Non-Value Added but Necessary (NVAN):** Required for compliance, regulatory oversight, or critical infrastructure, but adds no direct customer value. 3. **Waste (W):** Activities or steps that consume resources without providing any value to the customer or the essential business function (target for immediate elimination). For every step categorized as **Non-Value Added but Necessary (NVAN)**, provide specific, actionable strategies to reduce its duration, frequency, or scope. Challenge me directly on whether these "necessary" overheads can be streamlined or automated.
How to use this prompt:
- Copy the template above
- Customize the variables in brackets [like this] with your business details
- Paste into ChatGPT, Claude, or your preferred AI tool
- Get professional results in minutes
Why this works:
This prompt uses proven business frameworks and UK-specific requirements. It's designed to give you professional results that comply with local regulations and industry best practices.