Visual Systems

Visual systems are an array of visible indicators – signs, color coding, information, metrics, etc. that make it easy for the observer to understand the environment around them. Information is easy to decipher and does not require special training or instruction.

In the work area, visual systems are particularly important for conveying information about safety, productivity, quality and the flow of material and people.  Here, the condition and status of every relevant element of a work environment, as well as critical needed actions, is openly displayed and updated so that everyone knows what to do, when to do it and the progress made against it.

Effective visual systems are:

• Self explaining – no training required
• Self regulating – they can be easily changed if conditions change
• Self controlling – they tell what to do as conditions change

Simple signals are visual and do not require a lot of translation. They give an immediate understanding of a situation or condition. Visual systems show how the process is organized, how it should work and when there is a problem.

Visual systems are not only for production environments. They apply to any place where people gather and procedural adherence is important for safety, productivity or quality results.