The 3S Lean Workplace — Simple Systems for Lasting Efficiency

Published On - March 10, 2025

Ted Bonel 3. EXECUTION, BLOG
“If your workplace feels cluttered, chaotic, or slow — Lean isn’t the problem. Complexity is.”

Every week, businesses waste hours searching for lost tools, files, or materials. McKinsey found the average employee spends 1.8 hours per day just looking for information — that’s over nine hours a week of pure inefficiency.

The fix doesn’t require a massive transformation. It starts with 3S — a modern, simplified version of the traditional 5S Lean system, popularised by Lean expert Paul Akers.

The 3S method — Sort, Set, and Standardise — is simple, fast, and easy for anyone to implement. Whether you run a manufacturing plant, office, or retail store, these three steps can transform your workspace into a clean, efficient, high-performing environment.

Why Move from 5S to 3S?

The original 5S model (Sort, Set in Order, Shine, Standardise, Sustain) is powerful — but often too complex to maintain.

Paul Akers’ 3S version keeps what works and removes the rest, making Lean easier to sustain long term.

The goal: To make Lean simple enough that everyone can do it, every day.

  1. SORT — Remove the Unnecessary

Every Lean transformation starts with eliminating clutter.

Unnecessary tools, files, or supplies are silent productivity killers.

  • Keep only what adds value.
  • Remove what doesn’t.
  • Create a cleaner, calmer workspace.

A good starting point? Use the Red Tag System — label items you rarely use, and if they’re not needed after a set period, remove them.

 Takeaway: Clutter clouds judgment. Simplicity sharpens it.

  1. SET — Make Everything Easy to Find, Use, and Return

Once you’ve sorted the essentials, organise them for effortless access.

This isn’t about neatness — it’s about flow.

  • Use labels, colour-coding, and shadow boards.
  • Store tools and materials where they’re used most often.
  • “Clean as you go” — make tidiness part of the process.

A simple but powerful ritual:

Start or end every shift with a five-minute reset.

That small daily habit prevents disorder from creeping back in.

Takeaway: Organisation isn’t cosmetic — it’s strategic.

  1. STANDARDISE — Create Consistency and Ownership

The final step turns good habits into systems.

  • Create visual checklists for daily routines.
  • Document best practices so training becomes effortless.
  • Encourage small, daily improvements (Kaizen).

Visual management tools like dashboards, signage, and before-and-after photos make standards visible and repeatable.

Takeaway: Standardisation creates ownership — and ownership sustains improvement.

How 3S Creates Real Business Results

Businesses that implement 3S consistently see:

  • Reduced waste: Less searching, fewer errors, faster turnaround.
  • Improved flow: Work moves smoothly from task to task.
  • Higher engagement: Teams take pride in their workspace.
  • Continuous improvement: Small wins compound into big gains.
3S = Simplicity, Sustainability, Scalability.

 

Unlike complex systems that fade after launch, 3S builds discipline into daily habits — turning improvement into a natural part of the culture.

How to Get Started

  • Start small: Choose one area or process.
  • Engage your team: Teach the why, not just the how.
  • Track progress: Use photos, visuals, or KPIs to show impact.
  • Celebrate wins: Recognise progress to keep momentum alive.

Final Thought — Simplicity Scales

Lean isn’t about perfection — it’s about progress.

The 3S system works because it’s simple enough to start today and sustainable enough to last for years.

Start small. Stay consistent. Watch your workplace transform.

Ready to implement 3S in your workplace?

At Strategy & Execution Advisors, we help teams simplify, standardise, and scale continuous improvement — through practical, hands-on Lean frameworks that stick.

Contact tedb@strategyandexecution.com.au for a free 30-minute consultation and see how 3S can power your productivity.

“The best systems are the ones everyone can follow — every day.”

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Strategy and Execution Business Advisors and Scaling Up Coaches in Brisbane & Australia

TED BONEL, SCALING UP PRACTITIONER – STRATEGY & EXECUTION BUSINESS ADVISORS

Are you looking to scale your business and execute strategy with clarity and impact? I help CEOs and founders turn big ideas into real-world results, guiding small to mid-market companies through tailored strategic insights that drive growth.

My expertise lies in simplifying complexity – bridging high-level strategic frameworks with the practical realities of running a business. Unlike many consultants who focus solely on theory or execution, I specialise in both—translating strategy into actionable, transformative steps that deliver lasting results.

Ready to implement 3S in your workplace?
Contact me at tedb@strategyandexecution.com.au to schedule a free 30-minute discovery meeting.

 

ABOUT STRATEGY & EXECUTION

For over 20 years, Strategy & Execution has supported leaders and organisations in developing and executing winning strategies. We provide expert facilitation, executive education, and hands-on consulting to help businesses refine their strategic direction and implement it effectively.

Using proven methodologies like Scaling Up, E-Myth Mastery, Outthinker, and more, we challenge conventional thinking and equip organisations with the tools to accelerate growth. Our approach is dynamic—combining deep business experience with practical execution. We don’t just advise; we roll up our sleeves and work alongside you to make strategy happen.

If you’re preparing for a strategy development or execution challenge and are committed to creating real value, we’d love to hear from you. Learn more about our work or upcoming workshops