Genba Kanri
現場管理·genba kanri·"workplace management, shop floor management"
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Genba kanri is workplace management - the system of daily management practices that maintain and improve performance.
Definition
Genba kanri (workplace management) encompasses the daily management practices and systems used to maintain and improve performance at the point where work happens. It includes visual management boards, daily huddles, standardized leader routines, escalation processes, and problem-solving disciplines. Genba kanri bridges strategic objectives and frontline execution by creating the daily rhythms and visibility that keep work on track. Strong genba kanri maintains current performance while enabling continuous improvement.
Examples
Genba kanri in a production area includes: shift startup huddles reviewing yesterday's performance and today's targets, hourly tracking on visual boards, leader gemba rounds checking conditions, abnormality response protocols, and end-of-shift handoffs. These daily practices maintain stable, predictable performance.
Key Points
- Genba kanri provides the daily rhythms that translate strategy into execution
- Visual management makes status transparent; problems become visible quickly
- Standardized leader routines ensure consistent management presence
- Daily management maintains performance while enabling improvement
Common Misconceptions
Genba kanri is just supervision. Genba kanri is a system—visual management, huddles, escalation protocols, standard work—not just having supervisors present. The system matters as much as the people.
Genba kanri is only about maintaining status quo. Good genba kanri both maintains current performance and identifies improvement opportunities. Daily visibility surfaces problems that become kaizen targets.