The U.S. Army and Navy, and other
companies, soon realized the success of
Larry Miles’ methods. As the application of
value analysis expanded, there was also a
change in context—from review of existing
parts to improving conceptual designs. This
was one of two factors that marked the
emergence of value engineering. The other
was a desire by the U.S. Navy to use the
Value Analysis techniques for project
improvement in the early 1950s when there
was a moratorium on hiring “analysts.”
Since engineering positions were available,
individuals practicing this new discipline
were employed as “Value Engineers.”
As the value methodology gained in
popularity, a group of practitioners formed
a learning society to share insights and
advance their innovative capabilities. Thus,
in 1959, the “Society of American Value
Engineers” was incorporated in
Washington, DC.