More and more my conversations with clients are round the idea of optimizing the work space to increase efficiency and productivity for scientists while maintaining a safe environment. Why you might ask? In these economic times companies want to expand in place and make minor changes in space and process that could have benefits of increased employee satisfaction and quality, while using less resources, time, and effort.
How do we do this? We implement Lean Lab Principles. Lean lab principles are derived from lean manufacturing and the 5S workplace organization methodology. These Lean principles can aid a laboratory in increasing speed, efficiency, quality and safety. The physical layout will affect how people work.
Going through this collaborative process you can improve the performance of your lab by improving flow and eliminating waste.
These Five principles are:
1. Sort – to get rid of unnecessary equipment or store it.
2. Straighten (or “Set in Order”) – Organize work areas for maximum efficiency by organizing tools & equipment to promote optimum work flows through minimizing movement.
3. Shine – Everything is cleaned and functioning properly.
4. Standardize – Develop a routine for sorting, setting and shining.�
5. Sustain–create a culture that follows the steps on a daily basis.
Tags: Diagram, Interior, Learning, Lesson, LinkedIn, pain, Research, Safety
Posted in Agility, Architecture, Change Management, Lab Planning, LEED, People, Science, Sustainability
