A Japanese methodology for making more efficient workplace, developed by Hiroyuki Hirano in Japan in the late 1980s, with 5 different phases starting with the letter "s" in Japanese
Seiri (Sort)
1. Critical sorting, inspection and identification of files
2. Knowing what files are needed and what aren't
Seiton (Set in Order)
Organizing files after classifying them in the first phase, ensuring there is a place for everything and everything is in place
Seiso (Shine)
Keeping computers neat and clean, an ongoing and daily job
Seiketsu (Standardize)
Setting up a standard for developing file structures and methods, such as setting a retention guide for deleting files
Shitsuke (Sustain)
Ensuring the first four phases become a habit, requiring continuous action
5S
A Japanese methodology for making more efficient workplace, developed by Hiroyuki Hirano in Japan in the late 1980s, with 5 different phases starting with the letter "s"
5S phases
1. SEIRI (Sort)
2. SEITON (Set in Order)
3. SEISO (Shine)
4. SEIKETSU (Standardize)
5. SHITSUKE (Sustain)
SEIRI (Sort)
The "know what" phase, requires critical sorting, inspection and identification of files
SEITON (Set in Order)
Organizing files after classification in the first phase, ensuring there is a place for everything and everything is in place
SEISO (Shine)
Keeping computers neat and clean, an on-going and daily job
SEIKETSU (Standardize)
Setting up a standard for developing file structures and methods, e.g. setting a retention guide for deleting files
SHITSUKE (Sustain)
The hardest phase, requiring continuous action to make the first four phases a habit
SEIRI
Removing old books and papers that are no longer needed
SEITON
Organizing tools in a toolbox according to their frequency of use
SEISO
Dusting and cleaning the workspace at the end of each day
SEIKETSU
Creating labels and color codes for files to make them easy to find
SHITSUKE
Setting aside time each week to review organizational practices and make improvements