Business improvement strategy or useful tool? Analysis of the application of the 5S concept in Japan, the UK and the US
Article Type: Abstracts From: Strategic Direction, Volume 24, Issue 11
Kobayashi K., Fisher R., Gapp R.Total Quality Management & Business Excellence, March 2008, Vol. 19 No. 3, Start page: 245, No. of pages: 18
Purpose – To examine application of the 5S concept in Japan, the UK and the USA. Design/methodology/approach – Outlines the concepts of 5S(organization, neatness, cleaning, standardization, and discipline), and the way it has been applied to achieve business improvement in Japan based on frameworks by Osada (1989, 1991) and Hirano (1995, 1996). Examines Western implementation by identifying organizational web pages of US and UK firms that contained the term “5S” in the title. Employs the Yahoo search engine, then applies lexical analysis using Leximancer data mining software and six categories of content – one being the 5S terms. Analyses English translations of Japanese web pages. Findings – Summarizes the 20 most frequently occurring concept words in an analysis of 84 Japanese pages, 86 US, and 47 UK. Reports differences and similarities regarding categories, e.g. Japanese pages used“activity”, “method” and “necessary” much more. Finds thematic agreement across countries. Observes, however, that the US and UK regard 5S as a work-related concept (Hirano) whereas Japan regards it as life wisdom application (Osada) – hence there are significant differences. Practical implications – Suggest integrated application of 5S as a “philosophy or way” (Osado) and “5S as a technique or tool” (Hirano) should be practised. Originality/value – Establishes management attitude differences to 5S between Japan and the US and UK. Recommends a more balanced understanding of 5S as both a workplace philosophy and tool for business excellence. ISSN: 1478-3363 Reference: 37AN216
Keywords: Business excellence, Internet, Japan, Quality management, United Kingdom, United States of America
