The Gemba Square

This model continues to be one of the most powerful productivity tools in my kit and by using it as a filter to observe a real workcell in a factory, a surprising amount of productivity can be released.

The model states that, for an operator in a work-cell to be productive, they require four key elements (the four corners of the square):

• a correct and complete set of all tools necessary to conduct the tasks performed at the cell

• the necessary parts to be available when they are needed

• an operator properly trained and competent in the skills necessary to perform the tasks

• all information and reference materials that the operator requires to understand and execute the tasks.