Gemba walk

A Gemba Walk is a workplace practice where employees or managers physically visit the actual location where work is being done. Instead of staying in an office, they step out to observe processes firsthand and engage with the people who are actively performing tasks. The term “Gemba” comes from Japanese and means “the real place” or “where the actual work happens”. Here are some key points about Gemba Walks:

1.    Purpose: Gemba Walks aim to:

o   Observe: Understand processes, workflows, and challenges directly.

o   Engage: Interact with employees, ask questions, and gather insights.

o   Improve: Identify opportunities for continuous enhancement.

2.    Benefits:

o   Insight: Managers gain a deeper understanding of operational processes.

o   Feedback: Employees’ ideas, feedback, and issues are noted.

o   Continuous Improvement: Gemba Walks drive lasting positive changes.

3.    Safety Gemba Walk:

o   Integrates safety considerations.

o   Focuses on improving workplace safety.

o   Looks beyond compliance to find safety enhancements.

4.    Virtual Gemba Walk:

o   Conducted remotely (e.g., via video calls).

o   Useful during situations like the COVID-19 pandemic.

o   Allows observation without physical presence.

Remember, Gemba Walks empower organizations to bridge the gap between leadership vision and operational reality, fostering continuous improvement.