How Do You Implement Visual Management?

Visual management is one of the most effective ways to strengthen communication, drive accountability, and embed Lean practices in your workplace. But for many businesses, the challenge is knowing where to start.

At My Visual Management, we work with organisations across industries to design and deliver tailored solutions that make information clear, at a glance. Here’s our step-by-step approach to implementing visual management in a way that truly works.

1. Identify What Information Needs to Be Visible

The first step is to ask: What information does my team need to see instantly to perform at their best?

• Are you tracking KPIs and performance metrics?

• Do you need to highlight cleaning and 5S responsibilities?

• Would a Continuous Improvement board help focus daily activity?

By clarifying your needs, you can prioritise your visual management programme.

2. Choose the Right Visual Tools

Visual management isn’t one-size-fits-all. Depending on your goals, you might use:

• KPI boards to display targets and progress.

• 5S boards to support workplace organisation.

• Cleaning stations to define responsibilities and maintain standards.

• Continuous improvement boards to keep improvement projects on track.

At My Visual Management, we specialise in creating boards that are designed around your processes, ensuring they add real value from day one.

3. Keep It Simple and Clear

The best visual systems are easy to understand at a glance. Avoid overcrowding your boards with too much detail — instead, focus on what’s most important. Consistent layouts, clear headings, and intuitive designs make boards easier to use and update.

4. Position Boards Where They’ll Be Used

Location matters. Boards should be placed where work happens, not hidden away in an office. When positioned correctly, they become natural touchpoints for daily discussions, team huddles, and problem-solving.

5. Build in Ownership and Routine

A common mistake with visual management is failing to update boards regularly. To avoid this, assign ownership — whether to a team leader or rotating staff members. Make reviewing and updating boards part of daily or weekly routines, so they stay relevant and effective.

6. Review and Improve Over Time

Visual management should evolve with your business. Once your first board is in place, review its effectiveness:

• Is the information still relevant?

• Are the visuals helping people make decisions faster?

• Would adjustments make it clearer or easier to use?

At My Visual Management, we encourage starting small and expanding. This approach ensures success is built step by step, and boards remain meaningful over the long term.

Making Continuous Improvement Visual

Implementing visual management isn’t just about putting up boards — it’s about creating a culture where information is visible, understood, and acted upon.

By identifying the right information, choosing the right tools, and embedding routines, you can make visual management a natural part of everyday work. And with tailored solutions from My Visual Management, your team will have the clarity and confidence to keep continuous improvement moving forward.