Asunaro Aoki Construction Co. Ltd.
The introduction of GEMBA Note has led to workstyle reform, resulting in increased efficiency in site operations and improved work quality.
At Asunaro Aoki Construction Co. Ltd., the guiding principle of management is “Challenge to bring a change.” In July 2015, tablets were introduced at two model construction sites with the aim of enhancing the efficiency of site operations. Since then, the company has received requests from various sites, and many members of the building construction department are now using tablets. We interviewed individuals involved in the company to discuss how GEMBA Note is utilized and its impact following its introduction.
The system is utilized not only in the field but also for internal and daily operations
Nobuyuki Tsukimoto, General Manager of the General Evaluation Department of the Building Engineering Division, mentioned that when tablets were first introduced, they were used for three purposes: carrying drawings, streamlining the organization of reinforcement photos, and improving the efficiency of finish inspections. However, as the need arose for a tool applicable to internal work and daily operations, GEMBA Note was identified as a suitable solution.
“We initially trialed GEMBA Note Ver. 1 and later officially adopted Ver. 2, which enables cloud backup and information sharing,” stated Tsukimoto.
Paperless meetings and on-site work improved business efficiency
Process charts for on-site communication:
Meeting materials or process charts are available to import onto tablets, making communication and problem solving complete at the site.
So, how is GEMBA Note actually used in the field? We interviewed Mr. Takaguchi and Mr. Morishita. Mr. Takaguchi mentioned that he utilizes GEMBA Note for meetings by importing meeting materials and process charts onto his tablet, allowing him to carry essential documents with him on-site. “I embraced it immediately! When I received a tablet, I installed and used the MetaMoji Note, but GEMBA Note seemed capable of more,” he recalled, reflecting on the impact of GEMBA Note on his work.
“At the job site, craftsmen often inquire about processes. While I used to carry drawings with me, I never carried a process chart, leading me to return to the office for reference. Now, I can import various documents into GEMBA Note and carry them with me digitally at all times, enabling me to address on-site queries without returning to the office. Additionally, I can easily update process charts with information on the day’s tasks. This digital approach eliminates the risk of losing documents and allows for easy printing,” explained Mr. Takaguchi.
“In addition, I need to maintain records of the job site. I take photos and quickly document them by hand, or I utilize forms to record data such as outside temperature or concrete pouring area temperature,” added Mr. Takaguchi. He mentioned that before using GEMBA Note, he would print forms and carry them in a binder to the site. However, issues such as rain damage and missing papers were encountered. Moreover, GEMBA Note is employed to create instructions for adjusting exterior framing.
“I capture photos, insert them into drawings, and annotate them directly on the drawing using GEMBA Note. This process has been made effortless with GEMBA Note. Previously, I would write directly on printed drawings or photos, but now, with the ability to take photos directly on my iPad, the process has become more straightforward. Additionally, GEMBA Note allows for neat annotations, ensuring clarity even when printed,” remarked Mr. Takaguchi.
Printing directly from an iPad and digitization facilitate convenient data comparison and checking
Instruction template:
created by Mr. Morishita, a site manager
Mr. Morishita, who initially transitioned to using GEMBA Note instead of paper, shared insights into his current usage. “I used to capture pictures with a digital camera. However, with GEMBA Note, I can now print directly from the iPad. Furthermore, when we continue to collect data on-site, previous data is readily available, allowing for easy comparison. For instance, when measuring the settlement of seismic isolation devices under load, we previously had to carry copies of previous data or risk losing it. With GEMBA Note, retrieving and comparing previous data is quick and straightforward. Additionally, digitalization offers other benefits. Previously, when using paper, we would create instructions on a form for sharing with colleagues, but there were limitations in checking details. Now, with digital records, every detail can be scrutinized. With GEMBA Note, there’s no need to write on steel frames with chalk for on-site communication, eliminating mess, providing a comprehensive record, and enabling easy printing,” elaborated Mr. Morishita.
With Ver. 3, real-time sharing of annotations between sites and offices is possible
When asked about future improvements they would like to see in GEMBA Note, both individuals emphasized the importance of real-time sharing between remote locations, such as sites and offices. In fact, GEMBA Note Ver. 3 will introduce a Share function that enables multiple users to write and share information simultaneously, even from remote locations. This feature instantly transmits written annotations to each participant’s screen, facilitating seamless collaboration. “Previously, we would distribute copies of written notes or communicate via phone, which often led to misunderstandings. With this new feature, such misunderstandings can be mitigated. It could also enhance meetings where process charts and drawings serve as reference materials,” noted Mr. Takaguchi.
Additionally, the Share function is expected to enhance communication during meetings with subcontractors and streamline the exchange of information between the field and the office, further improving work efficiency.
In conclusion, GEMBA Note has transformed operations at Asunaro Aoki Construction Co. Ltd., offering a digital solution that enhances efficiency, communication, and collaboration across various tasks.
