Gemba - getting close to the source of a problem

Gemba is a Japanese terms used as part of the Toyota Production System (TPS) and may be translated as “the actual place”. It is a component of the "three reals", the Japanese mindset that suggests that it is necessary to get as close as possible to a problem before proposing a solution.

The “three reals” refer to the theory that by observing the actual process, in the actual place, the problem solver is able to obtain actual data. This effort will allow for a decision to be based on facts, instead of relying on second hand information collected by others.

OEE software is able to provide the actual data, which may be reported against an actual process, an actual place and indeed an actual time. It provides an ideal foundation for Gemba and Kaizen.