The Higher One Rises, The Lower One Should Walk
When I joined Toyota 21 years plus ago, I was sent to spent 2 weeks working in hot, stuffy, and tough environment.
It was at the parts packing plant in Kamigo, Japan to learn how parts are being packed efficiently, effectively and cost competitively.
That was my first real exposure to Gemba which literally means “place of action”.
This 2 weeks in Japan ingrained in me, the passion to see the real issue at where it’s being conducted ever since.
Also, as one rises higher in position, the reality of operation is always masked as red carpets and “special” preparations are made to show you only the “good/beautiful” side of the operation.
This is human nature to welcome the guest in most “hospitable manner”.
But to really being able to understand how our customers, products and services are being delivered, you need to see the reality.
Hence, I always make it a point to see the reality of the operation with my own senses, each and every-time.
And each time, I am taught new things, new phenomenon on the market, each time without fail.
I always enjoy such gemba sessions, as my eyes, my brain and my passion get feted with new learnings.
While promotions and ranks mean, we are needed in meetings in plush offices, never fail to find the time to see the gemba.
Gemba is the truth, gemba has all the answers to all the questions, that one may have in working life!
Hence, no matter how high you rise, never forget the walk the low grounds where action, truly is.
That is one life changing lesson, I never forgot ever, thanks to the 2 weeks and teachings of many Toyota supervisors in my career.
Adios Amigos.
Fantastic results, congratulations! 👏