Organizing areas with 6S
Organizing the areas with 6S
To organize is to arrange in a desired pattern or structure, which is coherent and based on the intended primary function of the area. Coherent is a key word in that wordy and lofty description. To be coherent something must be logically connected and consistent – with natural agreement and function of all the parts. Each 6S activity contributes to the ultimate organization and effectiveness of the target area.
For example, the Sort activity begins organization activities by identifying the necessary items for the target area and eliminating the unnecessary items from area. This is the first step in organizing any area. Based on the common uses or primary functions of the area, you can immediately determine what items are needed to accomplish those specific results.
Next, the Straighten activity assists households in determining where to locate and place each necessary item. The Straighten activity also provides guidelines to determine how items should be stored, labeled, used, replaced, and replenished – all key components to organizational effectiveness in any area.
As you continue through the 6S experience, each activity takes you a step closer to realizing and maintaining organizational improvements in selected target areas. The Shine activity assists in maintaining a “like new” environment and ultimately reduces costs. The Standardize activity helps you get everyone doing things in the same best way on the things that count and the Sustain activity provides methods and tools for maintaining the gains you realize.
6S can provide everyone involved in any target area with the tools, guidelines, checklists, and procedures to quickly take advantage of proven organization and housekeeping strategies. If you are interested in a coherent and structured approach to organization which will reduce costs and improve overall efficiencies, you can begin by reviewing the Principles of 6S and conducting a 6S Audit of the target areas of interest.
