Design and Implementation of a Participatory and User-Centred 5S Methodology for Manufacturing Management in Fab Labs

Although Fab Labs are proliferating globally, there is still little literature on their operational management, and therefore a significant research gap exists on how to adapt industrial efficiency methodologies to these collaborative and open environments. This study addresses this research gap by presenting “5S-FabLab-USER,” a participatory methodology that adapts the 5S framework (Seiri, Seiton, Seiso, Seiketsu, Shitsuke) to these environments, integrating user feedback as the central driving force of the improvement cycle. The methodology was validated through an action research study in a university Fab Lab, focusing on the Seiri and Seiton phases. The results combine quantitative metrics of perception and operational efficiency, demonstrating that active user participation not only significantly improves perceived space organization and safety, but also facilitates the cultural adoption of Lean practices. The main novelty lies in the iterative, user-centered approach that overcomes traditional resistance to standardization in creative spaces. The findings offer laboratory managers a validated roadmap for improving operational efficiency and sustainability without sacrificing the creative flexibility inherent in these environments.