Japanese word Gembutsu or Genbutsu (現物) literally translates as ‘real object’; here this means the equipment, the material or every other visible object.
In Japanese ‘Gen' (現) means original, real, primitive and ‘Butsu’(物) means thing, object, matter.
There are total 6G principles (Gemba, Genbutsu, Genjitsu, Genri, Gensoku and Genten) which are used for solving problems in Kaizen. Gembtsu is Second G of the 6G (to learn more, we invite you to have a look at our newsletter n°23: the 6G) .
Commonly used three G are Gemba, Genbutsu and Genjitsu, when used in combination together form extremely strong system for continuous improvement in an organization.
Genbutsu allows organizations to have their attention on facts and not only on reports. The management needs to take closer look at the actual final product to get a glimpse of what the end result of the whole manufacturing process looks like. It is easier for an organization to obtain actual details of a problem with the help of combination of facts and understanding of the product.
Besides the final stage, it is advised to monitor the product at every step of its manufacturing process. This helps to attain a better understanding of the process at each step of manufacturing. Also, it helps to see where and how the value gets added in different steps of the manufacturing process allowing to eliminate expensive and time-consuming steps. If these steps don’t add value to the customer specifications for the product it is considered as waste.
Such kind of waste can be missed in a report. Thus, to really trace the value added in a product, the organization needs to understand every stage of its manufacturing.
How to implement?
Genbutsu is very easy to implement. It doesn’t need any special training. Instead, the managers need to spend more time on shop floor where product is being manufactured. It helps to collect more facts by observing the process and communicating to the workers on the shop floor. Once found, problem can be approached any way the manager seems fit as there is no specific strategy. These observations can be either noted in writing or inform of pictures etc.
Benefits
Genbutsu helps to reduce or eliminate waste. These improvements lead to a more efficient and profitable workplace.
TLDR
- Gembutsu or Genbutsu is a Japanese term meaning 'real object' or 'visible object'.
- It's one of the 6G principles used for solving problems in Kaizen.
- Genbutsu helps organizations focus on facts, not just reports, by observing the actual product.
- Monitoring the product at every step of its manufacturing process is crucial for understanding the process.
- Genbutsu can help eliminate waste and improve efficiency in the workplace.
- It's easy to implement and doesn't require special training.
FAQ
What does the term Gembutsu or Genbutsu mean?
Gembutsu or Genbutsu is a Japanese term meaning 'real object' or 'visible object'.
What are the 6G principles used for solving problems in Kaizen?
The 6G principles are Gemba, Genbutsu, Genjitsu, Genri, Gensoku, and Genten.
How does Genbutsu help organizations?
Genbutsu helps organizations focus on facts, not just reports, by observing the actual product.
Why is monitoring the product at every step of its manufacturing process important?
Monitoring the product at every step of its manufacturing process is crucial for understanding the process and eliminating waste.
Is Genbutsu easy to implement?
Yes, Genbutsu is easy to implement and doesn't require special training.
What are the benefits of implementing Genbutsu?
The benefits of implementing Genbutsu include reducing or eliminating waste, improving efficiency, and making the workplace more profitable.
Can Genbutsu help eliminate waste?
Yes, Genbutsu can help eliminate waste and improve efficiency in the workplace.
