🔢 5S Number Game: From Chaos to Order

This simulation demonstrates the impact of 5S (Sort, Set in Order, Shine, Standardize, Sustain) on workplace efficiency in just a few minutes.

Built around the principle of “Seeing is Believing,” the game allows participants to experience the stress of working in a disorganized environment and directly see the difference that organization can make to speed and performance.

The game can be run in a training room using a projector or printed on A3 sheets for hands-on use in the workplace.

🛠️ Game Setup and Roles

• Objective: Find and mark the numbers from 1 to 30 in the correct sequence, without errors, on a disorganized layout.
• Operator: The participant responsible for finding and marking the numbers.
• Timekeeper: Measures the operation time using a stopwatch.
• Observer: Monitors errors and missed numbers as part of the quality check.

🚀 The 4-Step 5S Transformation

1. Chaos — Before 5S

Numbers, letters, and visual clutter such as stains are mixed together. Participants experience the highest level of difficulty and stress when trying to find what they need.

2. Sort & Set in Order — 1S & 2S

Unnecessary symbols are removed, and the numbers are organized according to a clear logic, such as a grid structure.

3. Shine — 3S

Sources of visual clutter, such as ink stains covering the numbers, are completely removed to create a clear and visible work environment.

4. Standardize & Sustain — 4S & 5S

The process is refined, the grid structure is established, and critical information is emphasized in bold to create clear Visual Management standards.

📊 Expected Productivity Improvement

• Speed: Average completion time decreases from approximately 95 seconds to around 12 seconds.
• Quality: Error risk decreases from a “High” level to “Zero.”
• Motivation: Operator stress is eliminated, making the working environment more comfortable and engaging.
• Overall Gain: The simulation targets more than 85% productivity improvement.

💡 The Critical Question:
Where was all that time between Round 1 and Round 4 actually going?

The answer: searching, waiting, and waste.

📥 Access the Training Materials

Join our community to download the detailed Trainer Guide, including:

• High-resolution presentation slides covering all stages of the game
• Performance tracking sheets
• Standard Work Instructions
• Discussion and reflection questions

These materials allow you to run the simulation with your own team and turn the principles of 5S into a hands-on learning experience.

Learn 5S by Experiencing It

5S is easy to explain.

But when participants experience the difference between chaos and order themselves, the impact becomes visible.

The 5S Number Game turns an abstract workplace organization concept into a measurable and memorable learning experience.