Avoiding the Gemba

I learned about the concept "Gemba avoidance".

It is the leadership habit of requesting reports, dashboards, or status updates about an operation instead of observing it in person and mixing with the operational team, where the work actually happens.

Many managers believe they understand what is happening in their organisation, while in reality they are completely out of touch with what it means to do the work.

It's important to never lose touch with operations. It's the only way to keep your finger on the pulse.