Within a Lean organisation the term Gemba simply refers to the space where real work takes place or value is created. Derived from the Japanese word “Gembutsu” which translates to mean “The Actual Place”, Gemba in a manufacturing context is often linked to the factory floor or production area, however Gemba can mean virtually any physical space in which the product or service is actioned.
Whether it be design, production, quality or supply chain, the concept is that problems are often easily visible, and improvements can be made by going to the “The Actual Place” where decision makers can see the process in action and how it aligns to the processes in other areas.
Gemba boards are a type of visual management board (VMB) that are designed to track the status of KPIs/KMIs in the short term through the use of short-term interval controls. Unlike a traditional visual management board which typically tracks lagging metrics such as the previous production or quality results, Gemba boards track leading metrics such as defects or attendance thus allowing for the opportunity for behaviour modification or preventative action to avert potential issues.
Gemba walks are an essential tool in any Lean environment as they allow management and leadership to observe and assess the actual work being done and how it aligns with their expectations. Gemba walks differ from typical management inspections as they follow a more considered approach:
Nvolve is the ideal solution to incorporate into your approach to Gemba, as it allows you to take training, SOPs and checklists directly onto the factory floor. Whether it is on-the-spot Video Training, talking an employee through a critical SOP revision or capturing sign-off directly on a Tablet Device, Nvolve will transform the way your work is scheduled, executed, and measured.