M4E #54 : Genchi Genbutsu
Sorry for being late this week! Lots of work in the past few days so I didn’t find time until the weekend to write this week’s M4E issue.
We have already talked in the past about the Gemba (check M4E #19) and the importance of going to where the problems happen and see it by yourself (if you are in a managing position). This concept of “go and see by yourself” can be translated as Genchi Genbutsu in japanese (more terms for our lean dictionary!). If you want to find out more about using the Genchi Genbutsu to go to the Gemba, see the next video by Lean Strategies International.
Time for Insights
When facing issues or trying to improve a process, managers or leaders are encouraged to avoid making decisions solely based on reports, data, or second-hand information. Instead, they should go directly to where the problem occurs, observe it in its actual context, and understand the situation from a more holistic perspective.
As told in the video, before proposing anything observe the whole process and listen to your people and their problems. Then prioritize and act to eliminate waste.
Genchi Genbutsu promotes a collaborative environment where employees feel empowered to voice their concerns and suggest improvements. When leaders actively listen to their frontline workers and take their input seriously, it fosters a culture of employee engagement and continuous learning.
M4E will take a break next week for a well deserved summer holiday until coming back in september!