M4E #101: What is a kamishibai board?

Have you ever had problems keeping track of the tasks performed on the shop floor? One solution may be the kamishibai board. Let’s check this video from GembaDocs and see how it may help you!

Time for Insights

• A kamishibai board is a visual management tool originating from the Toyota Production System (TPS) and widely used in lean manufacturing. The term kamishibai comes from a traditional Japanese storytelling method that uses illustrated boards to narrate a story. If you want to learn more about this cultural aspect of Japan you may check this video.

• One of the primary benefits of a kamishibai board is that it promotes transparency and accountability. By displaying the status of key tasks visually, it allows team members and supervisors to quickly assess whether processes are being followed correctly.

• Additionally, kamishibai boards help reinforce continuous improvement by encouraging regular audits and structured feedback. Instead of relying on occasional quality checks or reactive problem-solving, teams using a kamishibai system develop a habit of proactive monitoring, ensuring that processes remain efficient and deviations are corrected promptly.