The 5s System
What is 5s all about? What is the thinking behind it? 5s is about continuous improvement, about always doing better, always moving in the right direction.
The philosophy behind the 5s system is to create and maintain effective organization and standardized procedures in the workplace. The guidelines in 5s systems include sets of procedures, tasks, methods, and visual reminders based on five Japanese words that begin with "S": Seiri (Sort), Seiton (Set in Order), Seiso (Shine), Seiketsu (Standardize), and Shitsuke(Sustain).
5s phases involve sorting, organizing, cleaning, standardizing, and sustaining the workplace environment. 5S strives to eliminate waste and organize for efficiency. Used in facilities around the world, 5s programs have been embraced as a way to increase productivity, boost employee satisfaction, and improve safety. 5s programs can be applied in most workplaces in a relatively short period of time due to the simple nature of the program, with great results.
5s is about "continuous improvement"; a long term approach to workplace organization. 5S is a cyclical methodology that requires diligence to sustain the continuous cycle of improvement. Quality and efficiency is improved through consistent efforts to continually improve processes. Successful companies are flexible and changing, with efficient methods, and committed to continually improving; producing what their customers need, when they need it, without waste. Making a commitment to continuous improvement by implementing a 5s program into your workplace can increase efficiency and reduce waste, resulting in higher quality goods, greater productivity and growth.
