Getting started in lean manufacturing. (Industry Forum).

Everyone is talking about lean manufacturing and the advantages associated with that strategy. We've heard about the success companies have had by conducting productivity events, removing waste from their operations and becoming more efficient while experiencing significant cost improvements. We must realize, however, that there is a path to getting to that point; a path that starts with the five S's.

The five S's are.

* Sort--Sort everything.

--If you don't need it, get rid of it.

--Distinguish between what is needed and what is not.

--When in doubt, move it out.

* Straighten--Arrange and identify (organize and label). …