The 5 Ms of Lean Manufacturing

To ensure high productivity levels and employee performance, one of the first things you should take care of is the planning and optimization of processes. This is where the 5S methodology comes into play. Incorporating the 5S methodology into the daily operations of a company means much more than an improved organization, sustained cleaning routines, and efficient activity flows. That is to say, the real importance of the 5S methodology is that it will help improve the overall work environment by increasing efficiency, improving workplace safety, reducing waste, and improving existing strategies.

In today’s blog we’ll be discussing the principles of total quality management (TQM), but first, let’s go over what total quality management is and the benefits of implementing this approach.

Poka-yoke (poh-kah yoh-keh) is a Japanese term that means “mistake-proofing” or more literally — avoiding (yokeru) inadvertent errors (poka). What’s more, it’s one of the most fundamental tools of lean six sigma, and one of several lean manufacturing tools, that is designed to help organizations eliminate waste, streamline processes, and increase efficiency. Specifically, poka-yoke strives to achieve zero defects by preventing and eliminating errors from occurring in a process.