Capstone Project
The most challenging part of my Capstone project has been meeting the deadline for the Project. The whole process of the Gemba walk was time-consuming and required proper plans so that it would be possible to meet the project deadline. Right from the planning stage, we engaged in serious discussions as we set the project goals and designed the strategy to achieve the goals. We carried out several meetings to identify the appropriate questions to use in our interview for the Gemba walk. As we walked to various sections of the value chain, we spent much time interacting with the company employees. Our approach involved giving ample time to the employees to allow them to share their ideas without pressure. It was sometimes challenging to make the employees feel free and comfortable to share their ideas with the Gemba team without them necessarily feeling uncomfortable, especially at those we meet doing the wrong thing at the wrong time.
My advice to my colleagues who are still carrying on with their Capstone project is that they should be sure to put a sound plan on how to go about the Project from the onset. Proper planning is key, ensuring that the whole project is successful. It is also advisable that a proper schedule is also put in place to assist in time management and increase the chances of finishing the Capstone project within the stipulated time. The team should try as much as possible to meet the short-term targets as per the schedule to increase the chances of completing the whole project on time. To realize the impact of the Project, the team should also be sure that the recommendations based on the identified needs should also be implemented.