Keeping your workspace organised and efficient is vital, especially in small office environments where every bit of space and every minute matters. At O’Brien Media, we found adopting the 5S principle—a simple, effective approach from Japan—dramatically improved our team’s productivity and made our workplace happier and less stressful. The five steps—Sort, Set in Order, Shine, Standardise, and Sustain—are easy to implement and provide lasting benefits.
1. Sort (Seiri)
Sorting is about making decisions on what stays and what goes. We took a day at O’Brien Media to sift through piles of paperwork, office supplies, and equipment. Anything we didn’t need regularly was recycled, donated, or archived. This initial clear-out instantly made the office feel spacious and organised, noticeably boosting our team’s morale and focus.
2. Set in Order (Seiton)
After clearing out the unnecessary clutter, the next step is to organise what’s left. At O’Brien Media, clearly labelled shelves, drawers, and folders have made a world of difference. Daily essentials like laptops, stationery, and project files are now easily accessible. The reduction in time spent searching for items has been invaluable, improving our workflow significantly.
3. Shine (Seiso)
Maintaining cleanliness is crucial. Encouraging everyone in our office to regularly tidy their workspace and scheduling weekly cleaning sessions has significantly uplifted the atmosphere. A clean workspace not only reduces hazards but also creates a welcoming environment for both our team and visiting clients.
4. Standardise (Seiketsu)
Standardising our processes helped everyone stay on the same page. At O’Brien Media, we introduced simple checklists and clear visual aids that outline expectations for organising and cleaning. Regular quick audits ensure we stay consistent, making these practices second nature to the team.
5. Sustain (Shitsuke)
The key to lasting success is maintaining these habits. We’ve worked hard to nurture a culture of responsibility and pride in our workspace at O’Brien Media. Regular reminders, positive reinforcement, and team training sessions help sustain the organisation we’ve worked to achieve. Our sustained commitment ensures ongoing productivity and satisfaction.
Summary
Implementing the 5S principles can transform productivity across businesses of all sizes. At O’Brien Media, we’ve seen firsthand how organising and decluttering, establishing clear systems, maintaining cleanliness, and continuously reinforcing these good habits create a positive work environment. These principles can help any organisation reduce operational costs, boost efficiency, and create a happier, more productive team.