View methods side by side.
Choose up to four methods. Add them using the search and share the comparison by copying its link.
| Criterion |  Operations Gemba Walk |  Operations Waste Analysis |  Operations Process Mapping |  Operations Standard Work Analysis |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Purposedifferent | When there is uncertainty about the real course of a process, the method brings observation to the place where work happens. It combines perception, follow-up questions, and process knowledge so decisions rest on actual workflows instead of assumptions. | For a process that keeps people busy but creates little value, the method exposes waste. It directs attention to unnecessary movement, waiting times, rework, and overdelivery. | With a confusing workflow that has many handoffs, the method makes the actual process visible. It shows where work is passed on, delayed, or duplicated, so improvement targets the right spots. | When the same task is done differently depending on the person, the method exposes the reliable core. It creates comparability without unnecessarily choking off needed latitude. |
Complexitydifferent | Low | Low | Medium | Medium |
Timedifferent | 30-120 min | 45-120 min | 1-3 h | 1-3 h |
Participantsdifferent | 2-6 | 2-8 | 3-10 | 2-6 |
Formatsame | Workshop | Workshop | Workshop | Workshop |
Outputdifferent | Observation Notes, Improvement Ideas | Waste Map, Prioritized Waste, Improvement Backlog | Process Map, Handoff List, Improvement Backlog | Standard Work Sheet, Deviation List, Improved Standard, Training Needs |
Tagsno overlap | LeanObservationProcessOperations | WasteLeanProcess improvement | ProcessOperationsImprovement | LeanProcessQuality |