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5S – Seiri､Seiton, Seiso, Seiketsu, Shitsuke

Index

5S (整理・整頓・清掃・清潔・躾)

Origin: Japanese manufacturing, notably Toyota Production System

Quick definition

5S is a workplace discipline for organizing, cleaning, and standardizing to improve efficiency, quality, and safety.

The 5 steps

  1. Seiri (整理) — Sort: remove unnecessary items.
  2. Seiton (整頓) — Set in order: arrange items for easy access.
  3. Seiso (清掃) — Shine: clean and inspect regularly.
  4. Seiketsu (清潔) — Standardize: maintain the first three S’s with rules.
  5. Shitsuke (躾) — Sustain: discipline and habit for ongoing improvement.

Nuance & origin

  • Developed in Japanese industry after WWII.
  • Part of Lean and the Toyota Production System.
  • Fosters a culture of discipline and continuous improvement.

Common misconceptions

  • Not just about tidiness; it’s about operational excellence.
  • Not a one-time clean-up, but an ongoing system of habits.

Why it matters for leaders

  • Improves team efficiency and collaboration.
  • Reduces waste and enhances safety.
  • Builds a culture of accountability and discipline.

How to apply (for leaders)

  1. Start with a pilot area and test 5S.
  2. Engage team members in the process.
  3. Use visual management tools (labels, markings, checklists).
  4. Recognize progress and improvements.
  5. Maintain with regular reviews and coaching.

Leader’s prompts

  • What inefficiency can be removed by applying 5S?
  • How can I demonstrate consistency and discipline for my team?
  • Kaizen (改善): continuous improvement.
  • Lean Management: Western equivalent influenced by 5S.
  • Toyota Production System: birthplace of 5S practice.
 

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