December 2008 – The Manufactured Products division of ITW Heartland launched a revitalization of its 5S initiative, a building block for world-class manufacturing. 5S is a method used in lean manufacturing to improve workplace organization and standardization by keeping work areas organized, free of clutter, efficient, and safe, while eliminating waste and improving flow.

5S is a reference to five Japanese words which translate to the English words “sort, set in order, shine, standardize, and sustain”. Once fully implemented, the 5S process can increase morale, create positive impressions on customers, and increase efficiency and organization.

“Our teams have launched the program with excitement and success,” said Glenn Downing, Manufactured Products Business Unit Manager. "Our plan is to roll-out 5S across ITW Heartland operations. Such an endeavor draws upon the strength of our production staff, involvement from the management team, and employee enthusiasm to transfer the systems to their work areas."

ITW Heartland is a certified leader in precision engineered machines, parts, gears, and electro-mechanical products. Located in Alexandria, Minnesota, ITW Heartland has three distinct divisions: Spiroid Gearing (design and manufacturing of custom gearing); Manufactured Products (machining of close tolerances and complex components); and Strategic Assembly Solutions (complete machine assembly services). As an Illinois Tool Works company, ITW Heartland operates from a position of financial stability, engineering excellence, and refined manufacturing process.