Download the 5S Audit Template

About 5S

The 5S methodology is a simple practice that helps your organization realize efficiency gains quickly by optimizing the cleanliness, order and organization of each workstation. 5S workstations are sorted, set in order, cleaned (or “shined”), standardized and sustained. 

5S is the simplest and most effective Lean methodology because: 

• It delivers results quickly
• It is easy for staff to understand how a clean and standardized workstation can increase efficiency
• It increases employee engagement and general satisfaction
• It is relatively easy to implement

5S is a framework that helps workers organize a work space for efficiency and effectiveness by identifying and storing the items used, maintaining the area and items, and sustaining the new organizational system.

Once the workstation is optimized, the best practice is to schedule audits to ensure the workstation continues to be kept in optimal conditions. Most of our customers audit each workstation at least once per month. The purpose of these audits is not to get staff in trouble - they are to provide feedback about the state of a workstation.

Why digitize 5S Auditing?

The way to get the most out of your 5S program is to digitize the process. Digital forms offer so many inherent advantages when compared to paper forms and spreadsheets, including:

• Workflow Automation - automatically score 5S and create a “ticket” for follow up if the audit “fails”
• Photo Capture - snap a quick photo of the workstation for future reference
• Digital Signatures - Staff login or eSign so you know who actually did the work
• Data Capture Requirements - Ensure data is captured correctly with required fields, conditional logic and form automation
• Scheduling - Create an audit schedule and assign audits to workstations as well as staff members
• Engagement - Reward staff for completing the original optimization and executing peer-to-peer audits
• Accessibility - The auditing form is easy to find, fill out and move on. Staff are guided through the process ensuring success and efficiency.