Work Study: Definition, Objectives, Procedure,

Techniques, and Applications

Introduction to Work Study
Definition and Importance
Work study is a systematic examination of work methods to improve efficiency and productivity. It
involves analyzing and optimizing work processes by eliminating unnecessary elements and
improving task execution. Work study plays a crucial role in enhancing labor productivity, reducing
costs, and improving operational efficiency.

Historical Background
The origins of work study can be traced back to Frederick Winslow Taylor’s scientific management
principles, which focused on standardizing work methods to increase efficiency. Later, Frank and
Lillian Gilbreth contributed to motion study, complementing time study techniques.

Scope of Work Study

Work study is applicable in various industries, including manufacturing, healthcare, logistics, and
service sectors. It is used for labor standardization, process optimization, cost reduction, and quality
improvement.

Objectives of Work Study

The primary objectives of work study are:

1. Improving Productivity
By analyzing and optimizing work processes, productivity can be significantly increased.

2. Reducing Work Fatigue

Optimized work methods reduce worker fatigue and enhances efficiency.

3. Establishing Fair Work Standards

It helps in setting realistic performance benchmarks and wage structures.

4. Cost Reduction
By eliminating unnecessary work elements, industries can reduce labor costs and material waste.

5. Enhancing Quality and Safety

Work study ensures that work is performed safely and efficiently, leading to better quality output.

Procedure of Work Study

A systematic approach is necessary for work study implementation:

1. Selection of Work
Identify the process or task to be analyzed.

2. Recording of Work Methods

Document current work procedures using flowcharts, diagrams, or direct observation.

3. Examination of Work Elements

Analyze each step of the process to identify inefficiencies.

4. Development of Improved Methods

Eliminate unnecessary movements, rearrange work sequences, and introduce better tools or
techniques.

5. Implementation of New Methods

Introduce the optimized method and train workers accordingly.

6. Monitoring and Review

Regularly assess the effectiveness of the new method and make further improvements if necessary.

Techniques of Work Study

Work study is divided into two primary techniques:

1. Method Study
Also known as motion study, this technique focuses on analyzing work methods to develop more
efficient processes.
• Process Charting – Visual representation of work sequences.
• Flow Diagram – Helps identify unnecessary movements.
• Micro Motion Study – Uses high-speed recording to analyze small elements of a task.

2. Work Measurement
Used to determine the time required to complete a task.
• Time Study – Measures the time taken to perform a job.
• Work Sampling – Estimates time distribution by random observations.
• Predetermined Motion Time Systems (PMTS) – Assigns standard time to predefined
motions.

Synthetic Data and Work Sampling

1. Synthetic Data
Synthetic data consists of predetermined motion-time values derived from previous studies,
eliminating the need for fresh time studies.
• Advantages: Reduces time study costs and ensures standardization.
• Examples: Methods-Time Measurement (MTM), Basic Motion Time (BMT).

2. Work Sampling
Work sampling is a statistical technique where observations are taken at random intervals to estimate
work performance.
• Advantages: Less time-consuming than continuous time study.
• Applications: Used in non-repetitive work environments, such as administrative tasks and
healthcare settings.
Predetermined Motion Time Systems
(PMTS)
PMTS is a method used to establish time standards by assigning pre-established time values to basic
human motions.

Common PMTS Techniques:

• Methods-Time Measurement (MTM) – Classifies motions and assigns standard times.
• Work Factor System – A comprehensive approach for setting work time standards.
• Maynard Operation Sequence Technique (MOST) – Used in large-scale industries for
quick time estimation.

Advantages of PMTS:
• Reduces dependency on traditional time study.
• Ensures consistency in work measurement.  Helps in wage incentive planning.

Analytical Estimating
Analytical estimating is used when direct time study is not feasible. It involves:
• Breaking down a job into elements.
• Assigning standard time values based on past data.
• Applying correction factors for variability.
• Calculating the total standard time for the task.

Applications:
• Used for new work processes where time study data is unavailable.
• Helps in job costing and labor planning.

Time Study: Instruments, Objectives, Steps, Problems, and Fixing

of Time Standards
Introduction to Time Study
Definition and Importance
Time study is a work measurement technique used to determine the time required by a skilled worker
to complete a specified task under defined conditions. It is essential in industries for setting labor
standards, optimizing processes, improving efficiency, and reducing costs.

Historical Background
The concept of time study originated with Frederick Winslow Taylor, the father of scientific
management. His pioneering work in the late 19th and early 20th centuries laid the foundation for
modern industrial engineering techniques. His experiments aimed at improving productivity by
analyzing and optimizing work methods.

Scope of Time Study

Time study is applied in various industries, including manufacturing, construction, healthcare, and
service sectors. It is used for job evaluation, incentive planning, productivity enhancement, and
operational efficiency improvements.
Instruments Used in Time Study
To conduct a time study effectively, specific instruments are required:

1. Stopwatch
A stopwatch is the most common tool used for time study. It records the time taken to complete
different elements of a task. Types include mechanical, digital, and electronic stopwatches.

2. Time Study Board

A specialized board that holds a stopwatch and study sheets, ensuring easy recording of observations.

3. Study Sheets or Time Study Forms

These are pre-designed sheets for recording time observations, work elements, and calculations.

4. Video Recording Equipment

Used for detailed analysis, video recordings help in reviewing tasks multiple times to ensure accuracy.

5. Electronic Time Measurement Devices

Modern time study relies on digital timers and motion tracking tools to enhance precision.

6. Computers and Software

Software tools assist in analyzing recorded time data and generating standardized reports.

Objectives of Time Study

The primary objectives of time study include:

1. Establishing Standard Time

Determining the time required to complete a task under normal working conditions.

2. Improving Work Methods

Identifying inefficiencies and implementing better work techniques.

3. Enhancing Productivity
Optimizing work sequences to increase output.

4. Setting Performance Standards

Defining work efficiency metrics for employees.

5. Reducing Labor Costs

Minimizing time wastage and unnecessary expenses.

6. Fair Wage System Implementation

Ensuring workers are compensated appropriately based on their productivity.

7. Effective Work Scheduling

Helping managers in planning and allocating resources efficiently.
Steps in Conducting a Time Study
A structured approach is required to ensure accuracy in time study. The key steps are:

1. Select the Task

Define the job to be analyzed.

2. Break the Task into Elements

Divide the job into small, measurable elements.

3. Select the Operator

Choose an experienced worker to perform the task.

4. Train and Inform the Worker

Ensure transparency in the study process to gain worker cooperation.

5. Prepare Study Instruments

Gather necessary tools for the study.

6. Conduct Observations and Record Time

Measure time taken for each element accurately.

7. Apply Rating Factors

Adjust time values based on worker performance ratings.

8. Determine Normal Time

Calculate the average time required for a qualified worker.

9. Add Allowances
Include allowances for rest breaks, fatigue, and interruptions.

10. Compute Standard Time

Determine the final standard time for the task.

Problems in Time Study

Several challenges may arise during time study implementation:

1. Worker Resistance
Employees may feel that time study aims to increase workload unfairly.

2. Inaccuracy in Measurement
Human errors in stopwatch readings or data recording may lead to inaccuracies.

3. Variability in Worker Performance

Differences in skills and fatigue levels can impact results.

4. Environmental Factors
Noise, lighting, and other external conditions may influence study outcomes.
5. Difficulty in Breaking Down Tasks
Improper task segmentation may lead to misleading results.

6. Subjectivity in Performance Rating

Assessing worker efficiency can be challenging and prone to bias.

7. Allowance Calculation Issues

Determining appropriate allowances for rest breaks can be complex.

Fixing of Time Standards

The process of fixing time standards involves multiple steps:

1. Establishing Normal Time

Analyzing recorded data to determine the average time needed for task completion.

2. Adding Allowances
Factoring in delays, fatigue, and other interruptions.

3. Finalizing Standard Time

Summing up normal time and allowances to determine the official standard time.

4. Validation and Review

Testing the standard time in actual work environments for accuracy.

5. Periodic Re-evaluation
Updating time standards based on technological advancements and process changes.