5S is simple. Most great things in life are simple. However, to set and implement at a company is not that simple. As a matter of fact it is quite difficult and usually starts with massive resistance of employees.
Understanding 5S
There are different levels of understanding 5S starting from “We have to clean up at the end of the shift” or “we should through away what we do not need for work” through “We should mark the place of everything” up to “It is a visual management system that shows processes and any abnormality at a glance”. Although the most common expression is “5S is about discipline and tidiness” from which “tidiness” can be easily seen and presented. This kind of organized and tidy mindset is common sense for many people. Even in our homes, we use some of these approaches that are in alignment with the 5S philosophy. Just think of a very simple thing, like where you keep your toothbrush and comb. Aren’t they always in the same place? The video below shows some household examples of organized and tidy places in homes.