5S or the 5 pillars of the visual workplace is a systematic process of workplace organization.

• Sort- remove all items from the workplace that are NOT needed for current production.
• Set in Order- arranging needed items so that they are easy to find and put away. Items used often are placed closer to employee.
• Shine- making sure everything is clean, functioning & ready to go
• Standardize- the method you use to maintain the first 3S's.
• Sustain- making a habit of properly maintaining correct procedures.

(7) Wastes consist of:

1. Overproduction
2. Waiting
3. Transporting
4. Inappropriate Processing
5. Unnecessary Inventory
6. Unnesssary / Excess Motion
7. Defects

Value Stream Mapping involves mapping information and product flow for a given value stream. The mapping is done in such a way that allows one to visualize the current state and to plan and implement a future state with measurable goals.