From Metrics to Mindset: How Gemba Boards Shape Culture at 110 Metalworks
Beyond Improving Quality and Delivery, Gemba Boards Help Us Build a Workplace Rooted in Accountability, Collaboration, and Care
When Central New York manufacturers want to learn how to implement Gemba Boards effectively, TDO — the region’s leading resource for training and continuous improvement — sends them to 110 Metalworks.
“When TDO is working with manufacturers in CNY that are implementing Gemba Board processes for continual improvement, TDO has them visit us as a benchmark example,” said Ted Jeske, President and Owner of 110 Metalworks.
That’s because for more than a decade, 110 Metalworks has made Gemba Boards a cornerstone of our culture. Yes, they’ve helped us improve quality and on-time delivery. But their real power is in how they bring people together — creating a workplace built on accountability, collaboration, and care.
What Is a Gemba Board?
A Gemba Board is a visual management tool that displays key performance indicators, issues, and improvement actions directly in the workplace. By making performance visible, teams can:
- Hold daily conversations around progress and challenges
- Quickly identify problems before they escalate
- Work together on solutions in real time
For 110 Metalworks, these boards have become more than tracking tools. Since 2014, they’ve been part of a daily rhythm of Gemba walks and production meetings that keep projects on track and meet customer expectations without disruption.
Benchmarking with TDO
We’re proud to serve as a benchmark site for TDO (Train, Develop, Optimize), the Syracuse-based training center that helps Central New York manufacturers grow through training, consulting, and grant support.
When TDO clients tour our facility, they don’t just see metrics on a board. They see how a Gemba process can strengthen accountability, spark collaboration, and support a culture where people care about one another’s success.
Leadership, not Finger-Pointing
When defects or errors occur, the way leaders respond makes all the difference. At 110 Metalworks, how leaders address problems and errors creates the culture.
“When a defect or error is found, it might point to a needed process improvement, highlight a training opportunity, or simply reflect a human mistake,” Jeske said. “The way we guide our team through those corrections is what drives our culture.”
That’s why Gemba Boards are never about finger-pointing or grading people’s papers.
“For us, it’s not about blame — it’s about helping people and teams succeed.”
Instead, we use them to:
- Understand the root cause of issues
- Identify opportunities for learning and training
- Empower people to succeed, individually and as a team
This philosophy reflects our broader belief that accountability means supporting one another, not punishing mistakes.
The Values Behind Our Approach
Our use of Gemba Boards reflects four values that define our culture:
- Collaboration – We solve problems side by side.
- Accountability – We take ownership of outcomes and move forward together.
- Respect – We value the contributions of every person, professionally and personally.
- Nurturing – We invest in growth for individuals and teams alike.
As we’ve shared before, quality is more than a process — it flows from culture. Gemba Boards help us live these values in daily, visible ways.
A Culture That Lasts
The measurable gains are clear: better quality, stronger on-time delivery, and more confident customers. But the bigger story is cultural. Gemba Boards have helped us create a workplace where people feel supported and valued. That’s why team members stay for years, new talent is drawn to join, and some who left have even chosen to return.
At 110 Metalworks, Gemba Boards aren’t just tools for improvement. They are proof that when accountability is paired with care, continuous improvement becomes part of who we are. And it’s why industry leaders, guided by TDO, look to us as the model for how to do it right.
About 110 Metalworks
At 110 Metalworks, our journey is not just about growth; it’s a relentless pursuit of excellence. As we evolve, our commitment to unwavering values remains the heartbeat of our identity. Passion for manufacturing runs deep in our dedicated team, uniting with collective expertise to establish us as your steadfast ally.
Our mission? Crafting quality metal parts for the world’s best. Drawing on our extensive experience with metals and diverse materials, we provide OEMs with more than just a service – we offer a comprehensive production solution, ranging from simple components to intricate assemblies. No matter your business size, we’re geared to deliver unparalleled value.
We’re not just a supplier; we’re the supply chain partner you can count on. Your success is our success. Ready to elevate your manufacturing journey? Contact us today– let’s build excellence together.