Unlocking Organizational Success: Fostering Psychological Safety with Obeya

In a business world rife with ideological crusades, where thought leaders wage religious wars over the primacy of one process or strategy or belt over another, there nevertheless emerges that rare point of consensus: the unassailable role of psychological safety in fostering high-performing teams.

And if there is one tool or methodology I’ve witnessed first-hand that not only engenders but actually fast-tracks psychological safety, it’s Obeya.*

Now having worked with Obeya for well over a decade now - both with co-located teams using physical rooms and distributed teams with electronic whiteboards - I’ve seen it create workplace sanctuaries of sorts, where inclusion thrives, authenticity flourishes, and where talent can find its fullest expression - elements fundamental to rapid problem-solving, durable decision-making, and accelerated innovation.?

Envision a room (actual or online) where all pertinent information about your work and team is displayed clearly and logically. As you begin to process complex ideas more easily, your brain releases dopamine, one among several “feel good chemicals” which in turn fuels goal-oriented behavior. At the same time, seeing all this information laid out helps you feel more in control. The resultant sense of agency activates the part of your brain responsible for planning and decision-making, almost like having a superpower that helps you make better choices at work.

This sense of control coupled with new-found clarity triggers your brain’s reward circuitry and, much like an easy to navigate map that guides you on a complex journey, it reduces stress and increases confidence. In the context of Obeya, this translates to team members feeling more comfortable sharing ideas, raising concerns, and working together effectively.

By creating an environment where information is transparent and accessible to everyone, Obeya helps build trust among team members. When everyone has access to the same information and feels empowered to contribute, it naturally fosters a sense of safety and belonging. This is the essence of psychological safety - a key ingredient for innovative, collaborative, and high-performing teams.

* Interested in hearing - or even better, seeing how? Be sure to register for my latest online class, beginning in September with my Personal Kanban co-author Jim Benson . Details below.

Transforming Your Organization with Obeya

Implementing Obeya effectively requires a shift in mindset and specific skills to facilitate productive collaboration among diverse team members.

Interested in learning more? Register today for our Mastering Obeya & Humane Visual Management Workshop. Classes begin in September, seats limited so register now.

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