The 4 "S"
I recently returned from Japan, and was reminded about the 4 "S". These are excellent guidelines for ensuring that high quality will permeate everything you build. I recommend printing this out and hanging it above your workbench:
SEITON (translation: Arrange Properly)
"A place for everything and everything in it's place"
* Put things in the right order (tidy, ready for use, organize according to frequency of usage).
* Store all materials and information in an orderly fashion at all times.
* Distinguish between those things that are needed and not needed.
* Keep only needed materials for the project.
* Discard unneeded items immediately.
SEIKETSU (translation: Cleanliness)
* Problems are more visible when everything is neat and clean.
* Find minor defects while "sweeping clean"
SEISOU (translation: Always clean)
* Clean tools, equipment and job site immediately after use.
* Equipment that is kept clean runs better.
SHITSUKE (translation: Discipline)
* Follow what has been decided daily.
* Use standard procedures.
Your Sensei,
Kinya San
Hey Kinya,
Thanks for the reminder! The basics rule, and this summary is a great check list to use. I can't tell you how many times I have resolved all sorts of mysteries by simply cleaning up my shop.
Jon Harl recently send me a book "The Practicing Mind" which dovetails with this philosophy perfectly. Mindfulness. Stay present. It is the process that gives you the real reward moment by moment of being immersed in what you are doing, and doing it to the best of your ability.
My wife gave me a sign when I started doing harmonica work that said "Clean as you go". That is another great summary. I added it to my copy of the 4 S's at the bottom. One more word would also go a long way with all of this: Breathe!
Thanks for the post!
www.rsleigh.com