MVF Notes

By Drew Algase, CVS – Chairman, Lawrence D. Miles Value Foundation

The Lawrence D. Miles Value Foundation (MVF) had a productive year in 2024. We published two new books about the Value Methodology (VM) – Function Models Guide and Value Methods Theory.

Function Models Guide: Advanced Function Logic Techniques to Inspire Change
These advanced techniques are intended for use by seasoned value professionals to support the Function Analysis phase of the VM Job Plan, but also may be utilized in other activities such as project management, quality assurance, and risk analysis. These advanced function models build upon the basics of Function Analysis and Function Analysis System Technique (FAST) diagramming. The intent of presenting these advanced models is to expand the ability of teams to understand and communicate functions to accomplish “Function Inspired Change”. This book was introduced at the SAVE International 2024 Value Summit and is now for purchase from Amazon.

In conjunction with this book, an on-line seminar “Advanced Function Models” is available from the MVF. Authors present content from their chapters of the book during a three-hour virtual orientation training event, with unlimited access for the student for six months after purchase. Three Professional Development Units (PDUs) will be awarded to those who take this self-paced on-line course.

Value Methods Theory
© 2024 by Lawrence D. Miles Value Foundation
Authors: Donald E. Parker, PE, CCE, CVS-Life, FSAVE & Sandra C. Affare, PhD, VMA, PMP, CPEM
The objective of this new textbook continues to be to introduce and demonstrate value methods, but to an undergraduate and graduate level audience who may have no experience with the Value Methodology (VM). University professors and instructors will use the text to present the methods and theory with class exercises to allow the students an opportunity to apply the techniques herein. Each student should have the opportunity to present a VM Study (individually or in a group) by the end of the course. This textbook is available from MVF at https://valuefoundation.teachable.com.

While this textbook is consistent with the SAVE International VM Guide, it is not intended to replace the Value Methodology Fundamentals (VMF) prerequisite courses required for certification credentials. Professional certification for Value Methodology is administered by SAVE International and through approved instructors by the SAVE International Certification Board. Visit the SAVE International website at www.value-eng.org for more information.

Join the Foundation by Contributing

The MVF relies primarily on your donations to support our projects and initiatives to achieve our mission “to promote and fund the development of educational programs, new applications, and a research library for the study of the Value Methodology (VM)”. Your donation to the MVF makes you a member and gives you an opportunity to help achieve our mission.

Annual membership gifts include:

• Patron member $1,000 or more
• Sustaining member $500
• Donor member $100
• Contributing member $50
• Individual member $25

Your donation to MVF, a 501.c.3 charitable organization, has some tax advantages per IRS regulations:

1. Your donation may be deductible when you itemize expenses on your IRS tax return as a charitable deduction (Schedule A).
2. You may make a Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD) directly, by your IRA Trustee, from your IRA, 401k, 503b, etc. to the MVF. This direct donation does not count as ordinary income to you as a distribution from your retirement plan usually would, thus lowering your adjusted gross income (AGI). And this QCD will count towards your required minimum distribution (RMD) for those of you older than 72. However, the limit of the contribution (QCD) is $100,000 per person.
3. Another way to donate IRA assets is through an estate after the donor’s death by naming the MVF as the designated beneficiary – or one of them – of the IRA. The MVF will receive whatever percentage of the assets the account owner states on the beneficiary form.

Please consult with your attorney or tax advisor to be sure you understand the tax issues with these donations for your individual situation.

For more information about the MVF, please visit our website www.valuefoundation.org or contact us via email at info@valuefoundation.org.