Work study
The generic term used for those techniques, particularly method study and work measurement, which are used in the examination of human work in all its context and which lead systematically to the investigation of the facts which affect efficiency and economy of the situation being reviewed, in order to effect improvement.
- Methods engineering - That body of knowledge concerned with the analysis of the methods and the equipment used in performing a job, the design of an optimum method and the standardisation of the proposed methods. Also frequently referred to as “Work Study”
- Industrial engineering - Concerned with the design, improvement and installation of integrated systems of men, materials and equipments to improve productivity
- Method study/ Methods Analysis/ Operations Analysis - The systematic recording and critical examination of existing and proposed ways of doing work as a means of developing and applying easier and more effective methods and reducing costs.
Work Study - Meaning and Definition
One of the most important techniques, which are frequently employed by all management personnel, is work study. It introduces the most effective method of working. Work study has proved to be the most effective tool in the hands of management. Every industry is facing problems concerning the efficiency at all levels and so a systematic attempt is needed to eliminate unnecessary work and the make remaining work easier. Thus, productivity would automatically be increased. It is therefore, necessary to have a constant effort to reduce the waste in every phase of production. So, that there is a surplus available for division to develop good life.
- According to the ILO, work study is a term used to embrace the techniques of method study and work measurement, which are employed to ensure the best possible use of human and material resources in carrying outs specified activity.
- According to British Standards Institute, “work study is a generic term for those techniques, particularly ‘method study’ and ‘work measurement’, which are used in the examination of human work in all its contexts and which lead systematically to the investigation of all factors which affect the efficiency and economy of the situation being renewed, in order to effect improvement.”
Thus, the work study of human works in all aspects in order to improve productivity. It is a systematic and analytical study of work process and work methods with the objective of increasing efficiency and reducing costs. Work study helps to reduce waste through standardization of qualitative and quantitative element of the job.
Objectives of work study
- To analyse the present method of doing a job, systematically in order to develop a new and better method
- To measure the work content of a job by measuring the time required to do the job for a qualified worker and hence to establish standard time.
- To increase the productivity by ensuring the best possible use of human, machine and material resources and to achieve best quality product/ service at minimum possible cost
- To improve operational efficiency
Basic work study procedure
- Select the job or process or the operation to be studied
- Record all relevant facts about the job or process or operation
- Examine critically all the recorded facts
- Develop the new method
- Measure the work content and establish the standard time
- Define the new method
- Install the new method
- Maintain the new method
The purpose of work study is to determine the best or most effective method of accomplishing a necessary operation or function
- Both time study and motion study resulted from the integration of concepts and practices developed by F W Taylor and by Frank and Lillian Gilbreth.
- Concerned with the systematic analysis and improvement of manually controlled work situations
- Time study is a quantitative analysis leading to the establishment of a time standard
- Motion study is a qualitative analysis of a work station leading to the design or improvement of an operation / activity
The greatest production results when each worker is given a definite task to be performed in a definite time in a definite manner. Dr. Frederick W. Taylor
Work Study has major branches
- Method study
- Work measurement
Work Design or Work System Design - Systematic investigation of contemplated and present work systems in order to formulate, through the ideal system concept, the easiest and most effective systems and methods for achieving the necessary functions/goals/ purposes
Benefits of work study
- Increased productivity and operational efficiency
- Reduced manufacturing costs
- Improved work place layout
- Better manpower planning and capacity planning
- Fair wages to employees
- Better working conditions to employees
- Improved work flow
- Reduced material handling costs
- Provides a standard of performance to measure labour efficiency
- Better industrial relations and employee morale
- Basis for sound incentive scheme
- Provides better job satisfaction to employees
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