What is Gemba walk training in manufacturing?
Gemba walk training helps higher-level management, like directors and team leaders, witness what daily production looks like first-hand. The training is meant to teach them the principles behind Gemba walks and guide them through the proper way to conduct them in their own manufacturing plants.
Why is Gemba walk training important?
Gemba walk training makes sure team managers, supervisors, directors, and other higher-level members of the team can administer a Gemba walk effectively. It covers key topics that can enhance your Gemba walks in the following ways:
Builds the right mindset: Training gives managers and leaders a positive mindset during Gemba walks. This reduces nervousness among workers and focuses on transparency, so the team can focus on solving problems rather than passing blame.
Simulates real-world scenarios: Proper training prepares your managers to handle common Gemba walk issues, like approaching a shy employee or discussing sensitive topics.
Offers a structured approach: Gemba walk courses often detail a step-by-step process that can guide your leaders through a Gemba walk. It shows them what they’re expected to do and also helps them visualize an ideal Gemba walk for reference.
Teaches observation skills: Training also shows management what they should be on the lookout for during a Gemba walk. This includes formulating better insights depending on the observations they make.
5 steps for a successful Gemba walk
Many training courses will teach your managers the best practices to help them complete a productive Gemba walk. We’ve listed five key steps that can make sure your managers get the most out of their next visit:
1. Set a clear purpose or focus.
Before they set foot on the shop floor, they must decide what they want to look for. Are they focusing on safety, quality, teamwork, or a specific problem area? Knowing the goal helps them stay on track.
2. Visit the site.
The word “Gemba” is a Japanese word that stands for “the real place,” and it’s used to pertain to where all the work happens. Visiting the site and witnessing everything in person can help your managers and supervisors see the bigger picture instead of relying on reports.
3. Keep an open mind.
Make sure your managers keep judgment out, observing production as if it were their first time in the plant. Unlike what’s taught in process audit training, Gemba walks are more about pure observation and less about proving assumptions.
4. Engage and ask respectful questions.
One of the things that sets Gemba walks apart from other programs like plant inspection training is that your managers are taught to interact with the workers. Workers know the job best, and their answers can show what’s actually working and what could be improved. It gives honest information you can’t find in reports or observation alone.
5. Reflect and follow up.
Managers must review their observations and discuss them with the team. Make sure they reflect on what went well and where there’s room for improvement. They should also follow up on action items so workers can see their feedback turn into real changes.
Lay the groundwork for a collaborative Gemba walk with Mitti (by SafetyCulture)
Gemba walks are more effective when your managers can pinpoint relevant observations and initiate the right conversations with workers to build trust. Gemba walk facilitators equipped with key leadership skills can encourage workers to speak up on issues and share valuable input.
Mitti (by SafetyCulture) has a large library of courses that can build your managers’ leadership skills. From building trust with workers on the production line to developing the right observation skills, Mitti (by SafetyCulture) can give your managers an edge as they complete their Gemba walk training.
Help your managers build the right skills for their next Gemba walk. Join Mitti (by SafetyCulture) today.