An important part of improvement is taking the time to understand how a process is done by observing the process and connecting with the people who perform the process. By going to the Gemba, the improvement team is able to collect information about how the process is currently being performed.
By focusing on the process and listening to employees, the team can collect input from operators to help with mapping the process, get employee feedback, and increase buy-in. This in-person observation is an important step in improvement. The Gemba, which is translated as “the place where value is created”, helps to ground the team in the current state. It allows the team to compare what they assume is happening with what is actually happening.
The GEMBA is NOT:
- The time to solve problems or make changes.
- To find fault.
- To criticize the process.
- To make judgment on employee input and ideas.