Hey there! If you’ve ever felt like your desk (or your whole business) is a giant mess, this one’s for you.
Running a business is tough, and let’s be real—customers today want things fast and perfect. To keep up without losing your mind, you need a way to clear out the “junk” so you can actually do your work.
That’s where Lean 6S comes in. It’s not just a fancy corporate rule; it’s a simple way to organize your space so you can work faster, stay safe, and feel way better while doing it.
What exactly is 6S?
You might have heard of 5S, a method focusing on a clean and efficient workspace. Lean 6S adds an extra “S” for safety, highlighting the importance of a secure and hazard-free environment. Understanding each of the six S’s is key.
Let’s break it down into simple steps:
1. Sort (Clear out the junk) Think of this like cleaning out your closet. If you don’t use it every day, move it!
The Goal: Get rid of the clutter. If it’s broken or unnecessary, “Red Tag” it and get it out of the way.
2. Set in Order (A home for everything) Now that the junk is gone, give your important tools a “home.” Organize things so you don’t have to spend ten minutes looking for a stapler or a wrench.
The Goal: Less searching = less frustration.
3. Shine (Clean it up) A clean space isn’t just about looks. When things are clean, it’s easier to see if a machine is leaking or a tool is breaking. Plus, it just feels better to work in a bright, tidy spot!
4. Standardize (Make a recipe) This is where you write down the “best way” to do things. It’s like a recipe. When everyone follows the same steps, the work stays easy and fast every time.
5. Sustain (Keep it going) This is the hardest part! It’s about making 6S a habit. Don’t just clean once a year – check in every day to make sure the “weeds” aren’t growing back.
6. Safety (Protect your people) This is the “plus one.” Make sure floors aren’t slippery and tools are used correctly. A safe workspace shows your team that you actually care about them.
Why should you care about 6S?
You get more done: When you stop looking for lost stuff, you finish work faster.
You stay safe: Fewer accidents mean a much happier team.
You feel better: It is hard to be motivated in a messy work area. A clean space gives you a huge mood boost!
You save money: Less waste and fewer mistakes mean more money stays in your account.
In a Nutshell
Lean 6S is just a smart way to clear the path so you can do your best work. It’s about building a space where excellence can grow, naturally.
So, what’s one “weed” you can pull from your workspace today? Let’s get to work!
