IMPLEMENTATION OF ‘5S’ TECHNIQUE IN A MANUFACTURING ORGANIZATION: A CASE STUDY

Abstract

The paper represents an application of '5S' technology in one of the MNC Samsonite South Asia Pvt. Ltd., Gonde-Dumala, Maharashtra which is the leading manufacturer of the luggage bags in the world. '5S' in simple terms is a Japanese technique consisting of five 'S' terms namely Seiri (sorting), Seiton (set in order), Seiso (shine), Seiketsu (standardize) and Shitsuke (sustain) having a deep sense for managing the work place. The aim of the implementation of '5S' in the organization is to enhance the productivity, safety, efficiency through effective workplace management. The need for the implementation of '5S' in the organization came into existence due to unorganized work-stations, uncomfortable working environment and the excessive wastes in the company. Hence to get rid-off of the above factors, there was an urgent need for the successive implementation of '5S' in the organization. The effective following on '5S' in the organization by the various official staff and workman's strengthens the work ethic between them resulting in the motivation towards teamwork. The successive implementation of '5S' transformed the organization drastically, right from the working conditions to the employees working satisfaction.