Performance management is a crucial part of any organisation striving for continuous improvement and sustainable growth. Obeya, a Japanese term that literally means ‘big room’, provides a visual and structured approach to monitoring and improving performance within an organisation. At Stanwick, we strongly believe in the power of the Obeya methodology and work with four fundamentals to successfully implement this concept: structure, process, system and culture.
What is Obeya?
The Obeya method has its origins in the Japanese car manufacturing industry, and specifically at Toyota, where it was used as a space where teams came together to solve problems quickly and efficiently. In an Obeya room, strategic goals, plans and performance indicators are visually presented on boards so that everyone is aware of progress. This approach ensures transparency, makes problems quickly visible and encourages team-oriented decision-making.
In a modern context, Obeya can be seen as a physical or digital collaboration platform where teams and leaders come together to discuss the progress of strategic goals, identify obstacles and coordinate actions. It provides a structured environment where continuous improvement is central.
Team autonomy: Stanwick's unique approach
What makes Stanwick's approach truly unique is the combination of Obeya with team autonomy. Stanwick aims not only to provide the tools and methods for performance management, but also to empower teams by giving them ownership of their goals and actions. This makes teams more agile and responsive to change.
Stanwick's Four foundations and 12 principles for a successful Obeya implementation
At Stanwick, we believe that a successful Obeya implementation rests on four foundations: structure, process, system and culture. Each of these foundations plays a crucial role in creating an environment in which Obeya can be used to its full potential.
1. Structure
The structure or organisation of Obeya teams is critical to the effectiveness of performance management.
Principle 1: Decision makers present in the Obeya
Principle 2: Teams connected through escalation and feedback processes
Principle 3: Anchored leadership, clear roles and responsibilities
2. Process
A streamlined process that starts from an organisation's ‘purpose’ is essential. A well-structured process ensures clear guidelines and regularity in working with Obeya.
Principle 4: Vision visible in the Obeya
Principle 5: Mission translated into concrete goals per team
Principle 6: Rhythm and regularity in Obeya meetings
3. System
A support system for the Obeya ensures that data and visual aids are logically integrated into the work processes. To this end, Stanwick works with iObeya, a digital version of the traditional Obeya space.
Principle 7: The Obeya guides us through the process
Principle 8: Insight into work processes and focus through visualisation
Principle 9: Accessible and relevant Obeya environment
4. Culture
The culture of an organisation is perhaps the most challenging, but also the most crucial factor for a successful Obeya implementation. This involves the way employees think and act. This culture should promote transparency, learning and collaboration.
Principle 10: Respectful discovery, learning and action together
Principle 11: Dedication, commitment and initiative to improve
Principle 12: Making decisions based on data and facts
Stanwick supports organisations in creating a culture where employees feel committed to the organisation's strategic goals. This means leadership must play an active role in fostering open dialogue and encouraging a problem-solving mindset. By increasing employee engagement and ownership, teams are empowered to proactively contribute to the organisation's performance.
The benefits of Obeya for your organisation
Implementing Obeya can bring significant benefits to organisations striving for improved performance and a culture of continuous improvement:
- Improved transparency: By visually displaying all key information, teams and leaders gain immediate insight into progress and challenges.
- Faster decision-making: By meeting regularly in the Obeya space, teams can respond more quickly to issues and decisions are better informed.
- Better alignment of goals: The structured approach ensures that strategic goals are better translated into concrete action plans.
- Increased employee engagement: A well-designed Obeya culture encourages ownership and commitment, leading to higher motivation and productivity.
- Continuous improvement: Regular evaluation and adjustment of progress creates a cycle of continuous improvement that leads to sustainable growth.
Conclusion
Obeya offers organisations a powerful tool for managing performance, with a focus on transparency, rapid decision-making and continuous improvement. At Stanwick, we believe that a successful Obeya implementation relies on the four fundamentals: structure, process, system and culture. This approach helps organisations achieve their strategic goals effectively and create a culture of ownership and improvement.
Are you ready to harness the power of Obeya? Stanwick is ready to guide you through this transformation process and work with you to reap the benefits of improved organisational performance.
Annelies Boecxstaens
