Takt Image
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Takt image is a visual representation of what should happen at each takt time interval, making abnormalities immediately visible.
Definition
Takt image is a visual representation of what should be happening at each takt time interval throughout a production system. If takt is 60 seconds, the takt image shows where every item should be at any 60-second snapshot: one unit in each cell position, one unit leaving shipping, one unit entering each process. When reality matches the takt image, the system is on pace. When reality differs—empty positions, accumulations, delays—the abnormality is immediately visible. Takt image makes pacing visual, turning abstract time-based targets into concrete, observable states.
Examples
An assembly line's takt image shows: at any moment, one car body at each station, spaces evenly filled along the line, one car leaving final inspection every 60 seconds. Supervisors can walk the line and instantly see if reality matches the image: an empty station or an accumulation reveals problems.
Key Points
- Makes time-based targets spatial and visual
- Abnormalities visible at a glance—no data analysis required
- Creates shared understanding of "what should be happening now"
- Enables immediate response to deviations from plan
Common Misconceptions
Takt image requires formal displays. A mental takt image is valuable even without physical displays. Supervisors who know what they should see can walk the gemba and spot abnormalities.
Takt image is only for assembly lines. Any paced process can have a takt image—the visualization of correct pacing state that makes abnormalities obvious.