How do you measure and improve the effectiveness of Gemba in Kaizen?

In my experiences, defining the purpose of a gemba visit is essential to ensure its effectiveness and relevance. Before heading to the gemba, it's crucial to identify what specific aspects of the process I aim to learn, understand, or improve. This includes determining key performance indicators (KPIs) that reflect both the value and waste within the process. Additionally, planning how to collect and analyze data during the visit is vital for gaining meaningful insights. Having a well-defined purpose enables me to focus my attention, ask pertinent questions, and approach the gemba with a clear objective, facilitating more insightful observations and informed decision-making.

To measure and improve Gemba effectiveness in Kaizen, start by defining clear objectives and KPIs. Regularly observe processes, engage with employees, and collect data. Analyze findings, identify improvement opportunities, and implement changes. Continuously evaluate results, seek feedback, and adjust strategies for ongoing enhancement.

Establish Open Communication: HR should create a culture of communication that allows employees to share ideas without fear, thereby increasing engagement and trust.

Recruitment: In the recruitment process, ask "Why is this position important?" and "How will the selection process be conducted?" to attract the right candidates.

Digital Recruitment System: Utilize digital recruitment tools to visually present candidate information, speeding up the selection process.

Plan Strategy (Plan): Once the problem has been identified, HR plans clear and measurable improvement steps, using a SMART approach to set goals. Implementation (Do): Implement the plans that have been made, including employee training and development programs, and improving internal communication. Evaluation (Check): After implementation, HR needs to evaluate the results by analyzing the data and feedback to ensure the goals were achieved. Corrective Action (Act): Based on the evaluation results, take necessary corrective actions and repeat the PDCA cycle for continuous improvement.

Analyze Performance Data: Use objective data to assess achievements and identify trends that need attention and Provide Constructive Feedback: Deliver clear and specific feedback, and discuss action plans for employee development.

A Gemba KPI dashboard can provide ongoing measurement of the effectiveness of actions taken post-Gemba. In a Kaizen initiative to improve supply chain logistics, I developed a dashboard that tracked key indicators such as delivery lead times, order accuracy, & customer satisfaction. After each Gemba walk, we updated the dashboard to reflect the impact of process changes. By continuously monitoring these KPIs, I was able to see how each Gemba walk contributed to incremental improvements, such as a 10% reduction in lead times over six months. A Gemba KPI dashboard provides continuous visibility into the success of Gemba actions, allowing for real-time adjustments.