At some point, you'll be ready to get your hands dirty and jump in with the group to Set things in Order. In my opinion, this is where the fun is. Tackling an area and process to make it better for the group - it doesnt get much better. However, the preparation for this step is critical to it's success. Here are some tips to make sure you're as prepared as possible:

Take plenty of before pictures

A few weeks before the scheduled event create a spaghetti diagram of the…

One of the most wasteful processes on the shop floor is walking from one process to the other. Putting material and information at point of use will dramatically reduce this waste. One solution, a mobile, battery powered workstation works particularly well in warehouse and quality inspection departments.

Labeling is a typical function in warehouses and incoming inspection departments. More often than not, the computer stations are quite a distance from where the labeling…

Weekly “Tip for 5S Launch Success”

Tip # 2: Following on last week’s post about making sure everyone know’s not to disturb you during your 5S implementation it’s critical for the leader of the group to do lead by example. No cell, no leaving the team, no taking calls, no meetings, nothing, no disturbances. The team will follow your lead. Remember that you are always on stage as a leader so Lead!

Do you have any 5S Launch Tips for your fellow readers? If so, share them…

5S is actually quite simple to implement. Even so, there are steps you can take to improve your chance of success.  Each week, we'll post another "Tip for 5S Launch Success"

Tip # 1: inform all other departments about your implementation plan. Make it clear that you nor your team are to be disturbed during these times. Idea: Get a “5S Men At Work” sign and put it in the area when you’re in the midst of the event. Make sure…