Value Flow Quality (VFQ)

VFQ vs Iron Triangle (PRINCE2 etc..)

→ VFQ is built for complexity, uncertainty, and innovation.
▲ The Iron Triangle is built for predictability, control, and fixed delivery.

→ One optimises for outcomes.
▲ The other optimises for adherence to a plan.

Challenge	Description
Slow or unpredictable flow	Work takes longer than expected or stalls between handoffs.
Activity without real value	Teams are busy but outcomes don’t meaningfully help customers.
Fragmented, assumption-based decisions	Choices are made without evidence or a shared understanding.
Reliance on “best practice”	Improvement depends on copying methods, not understanding context.

Principle	Summary
Learn Fast	Reduce uncertainty through quick feedback and experimentation.
Focus on Value	Prioritise work that clearly contributes to customer outcomes.
Improve Flow	Visualise and optimise how work moves end-to-end across the organisation.
Evidence-Based	Make decisions using validated learning rather than opinion.

Practice	What It Enables
Visualising work	Makes the system visible and easier to improve.
Limiting work in progress	Reduces overload and accelerates throughput.
Lightweight experiments	Validates ideas safely and quickly.
Short feedback loops	Ensures continuous learning and rapid course correction.
Team empowerment	Issues are resolved where they occur, improving flow reliability.

Outcome	Benefit
Faster delivery	Shorter lead times and fewer delays.
Higher decision confidence	Teams validate what works before scaling.
Better alignment	Clear focus on value across teams and functions.
Reduced waste and rework	Less time spent on low-value or incorrect work.
Strong learning culture	Continuous improvement becomes part of everyday work.

Reason	Impact
Clarity and purpose	Teams understand what matters and why.
Mastery of flow and value	Builds the core capabilities that sustain long-term performance.
Adaptability in complex environments	Organisations respond faster and more confidently to change.