Facilitating change – implementing 5‐S: an Australian case study

Abstract

The Australian office of the MaST International Group was undertaking a massive, rapid change in organisational purpose, focus and structure to better align itself with their global, parent business. To facilitate the process and to rediscover the value of TQM within the organisation, the Australian office decided to introduce the 5‐S practice into their business. The following action research case study reports on the organisation’s Australian experience with 5‐S practice, with a particular emphasis on: the link between 5‐S practice and the business strategic plan; changes in the internal culture of the organisation; and the lessons learnt that could encourage the adoption of the 5‐S practice into the International Group.