What is a Gemba walk?

A Gemba walk is a fundamental practice in lean management and continuous improvement, specifically within the Six Sigma methodology. The term "Gemba" is a Japanese word that means "the real place," referring to the location where work occurs. When conducting a Gemba walk, individuals, typically leaders or members of the improvement team, go to the actual location where processes take place to observe operations firsthand. This practice allows them to see the work environment, engage with employees, and identify opportunities for improvement by gathering real-time insights into workflows and challenges.

By being present on the shop floor or in the service area, practitioners can better understand the processes, identify waste, and foster communication among team members. It emphasizes the importance of experiential learning and direct observation as effective ways to discover underlying issues that may not be evident through reports or data alone. This hands-on approach enhances problem-solving and supports a culture of continuous improvement.