The Kamishibai Board: visual management in action

A Kamishibai board is a visual management tool used to track the frequency and results of audits and controls within a process. The Japanese word Kamishibai means "paper stage" and refers to the cards used as signals to make the status of work clear.

The board makes the Lean genchi genbutsu (go and see for yourself) a standardized part of management's tasks. Managers use the board to determine when to visit a process and what to check.

How does it work?

The Kamishibai board consists of several boxes or cards that represent the status of audits of a process. The colors or symbols on the cards have a clear meaning:

• Green or a circle: The audit has taken place and everything is in order. The quality and quantity are correct and the standardized procedure is followed.
• Yellow or a triangle: A discrepancy was noted, but immediately resolved by the team.
• Red or a cross: An anomaly has been detected that requires immediate action. This situation must be rectified.
• Empty box: The scheduled audit did not take place.

The primary purpose of the board is to quickly identify anomalies and focus management's attention on the gemba (the shop floor). By visualizing the status, managers can immediately see where their support is needed, allowing them to take quick action to resolve issues and ensure compliance with standards.

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