Track: Operations Management

Abstract

5S Kaizen is the backbone of Lean manufacturing. The success of any productivity improvement strategy in manufacturing depend upon the understanding and commitment to 5S by management and staff. Key Perfomance  indicators (KPI)  target the in-house training of staff so that the company culture will change gradually from Non Lean Manufacturing (NLM) to Lean manufacturing (LM). 5S has to be interlinked with all the other lean stratergies to increase efficiency.The organization has to be interlinked to all its suppliers and clients so that the materials and equipment of the correct specifications are delivered timely. The first 3 Ss are critical and managemnt need to develop  a champion for each who often check for unwanted materials and equipment (sort), arrangement of  the needed equipment and materials (set in order) and cleanliness of the work environment (Shine). Management should commite in setting and sustaining standards . Some give refresher courses and feedback for any acceptable outcome.