A Time and Motion Study is a systematic approach used to analyze work performance with the goal of maximizing operational efficiency. This methodology involves detailed observation and measurement of how tasks are performed. By breaking down complex jobs into smaller elements, organizations identify areas of non-value-added activity and establish measurable performance benchmarks. The objective is to refine work processes, reduce waste, and set objective standards for worker output and production scheduling.
Defining Time and Motion Studies
Time and Motion Studies combine two distinct analytical techniques. A Time Study is a quantitative process focused on determining the standard time required for a qualified worker to complete a specific task at a defined level of performance. This establishes the duration aspect of the work cycle.
The Motion Study, in contrast, is a qualitative examination of the physical movements a worker uses to perform a task. Its goal is to analyze and simplify the body motions involved, eliminating unnecessary effort and reducing worker fatigue.
The Historical Roots of Scientific Management
The foundation for Time and Motion Studies emerged from the broader movement known as Scientific Management in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Frederick Winslow Taylor is widely credited as the father of this field, focusing primarily on the Time Study aspect. Taylor’s work involved meticulously timing workers using a stopwatch to determine the fastest way to perform a task, establishing a “fair day’s work.”
Frank and Lillian Gilbreth later pioneered the Motion Study component. The Gilbreths focused on the psychology and physical movements of work, recognizing that efficiency gains could be achieved by optimizing the physical path and effort required. Lillian Gilbreth, a psychologist, introduced the human element and fatigue reduction into the engineering analysis of work.
How Time Studies Work
Executing a Time Study begins with selecting a representative worker and precisely recording the existing work method. The analyst uses a timing device to record the time taken for several complete cycles of the task. This raw time data is broken down into smaller, measurable elements to ensure accuracy.
After timing, the analyst applies a performance rating, sometimes called leveling, to the observed time. This rating adjusts the worker’s pace to a defined standard performance level, resulting in the normal time for the task. Finally, the normal time is increased by an allowance factor to account for unavoidable delays, personal needs, and fatigue. This calculation yields the final standard time used for planning and scheduling.
Analyzing Motion and Eliminating Waste
The Motion Study focuses on the qualitative analysis of physical movements to identify and eliminate unnecessary actions, reducing wasted effort and strain. Analysts employ techniques like micro-motion video recording to capture and review the sequence of movements required to complete the task. This allows for the identification of awkward postures or long transport distances.
A technique developed by the Gilbreths uses 18 fundamental elements of motion, termed ‘Therbligs’ (Gilbreth spelled backward). Each Therblig represents a specific action like “search,” “grasp,” “position,” or “release load.” By charting the sequence of these elements, analysts pinpoint and remove non-productive motions to design a streamlined, low-effort work method.
Step-by-Step Methodology for Conducting a Study
Conducting a Time and Motion Study requires a structured approach integrating measurement and analysis. The process starts by defining the study’s objective, such as reducing cost or setting a new standard, and ensuring the task is standardized. A proficient worker must be selected as the subject of the observation.
The analyst documents the existing method, often using notes or video, and executes the time and motion analysis. Data is collected by timing task cycles and simultaneously charting physical movements using the Therblig framework.
Finally, the analyst synthesizes the findings to develop a new, optimized standard method. This method eliminates inefficient motions and uses the calculated standard time. The final phase involves training all workers on the new method and formally documenting the standard time and procedure.
Key Benefits and Applications
The practical outcomes of implementing Time and Motion Studies extend across several operational areas. A primary benefit is the objective establishment of fair production standards, which forms the basis for equitable wage incentive systems and piece-rate payment plans.
The detailed analysis of a task leads to the standardization of work methods, which improves the efficiency of employee training programs. Insights gained can also optimize the physical layout of a workspace, ensuring tools and materials are within easy reach to minimize transport and search time. Accurate standard times enable management to create precise production schedules, calculate manpower needs, and reliably estimate manufacturing costs.
Criticisms and Modern Relevance
Historically, Time and Motion Studies faced significant criticism concerning the perception of dehumanization and worker exploitation. The practice was sometimes seen as reducing complex human activity to mechanical steps, leading to resistance and labor disputes over the intensity of work standards.
Despite these historical issues, the core principles of process analysis and waste reduction remain highly relevant and form the bedrock of modern operational methodologies. Concepts like Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma directly utilize the focus on identifying non-value-added steps and streamlining processes. Today, manual stopwatch timing is often replaced by video analysis and automated tracking software, offering more precise data collection. The modern application emphasizes continuous improvement and integrating worker input, moving beyond the rigid, top-down approach of the past to create efficient and ergonomically sound systems.