Work Study and Method Study

Why it matters

Work Study and Method Study are crucial for enhancing productivity and efficiency in industrial operations. By systematically analyzing work processes and methods, engineers can identify inefficiencies and implement improvements, leading to cost savings and increased output.

Key ideas

• Work Study: A systematic examination of activities to improve the effective use of resources and set up standards of performance.
  • Method Study: Focuses on improving the way tasks are performed by analyzing the current method and developing a more efficient one.
  • Work Measurement: Involves determining the time required to complete a task using the best method.
• Steps in Method Study:
  1. Select the work to be studied.
  2. Record all relevant facts about the current method.
  3. Examine the recorded facts critically.
  4. Develop the most practical, economic, and effective method.
  5. Define the new method.
  6. Install the new method.
  7. Maintain the new method.
• Tools and Techniques:
  • Flow Process Charts
  • Operation Charts
  • Time Study
  • Work Sampling

Formulas

• Standard Time = Normal Time + Allowances
  • Standard Time: Total time allowed to perform a task, including allowances (seconds or minutes).
  • Normal Time: Time taken to perform a task at a standard pace (seconds or minutes).
  • Allowances: Additional time given for rest, fatigue, and delays (percentage of Normal Time).

When allowances are a fraction a of normal time, standard time = normal time(1+a). If instead allowances are a fraction a of total standard time, standard time = normal time/(1-a). Always state the basis. Normal time is commonly observed time multiplied by a performance-rating factor. Assess the specified method, quality and working conditions before assigning a standard.

Worked example

Given: A task has a normal time of 30 minutes. Allowances are 20% of the normal time.

1. Calculate the allowances.
   • Allowances = Normal Time × Allowance Percentage
   • Allowances = 30 min × 0.20 = 6 min
2. Calculate the standard time.
   • Standard Time = Normal Time + Allowances
   • Standard Time = 30 min + 6 min = 36 min

Final Answer: 36 minutes

Common mistakes

• Confusing normal time with standard time.
• Ignoring allowances in time calculations.
• Failing to critically analyze the current method before developing a new one.

For GATE ME

Questions often involve calculating standard time, analyzing flow process charts, and identifying improvements in work methods. Practice problems on time study calculations and method analysis.

Quick check

1. What is the primary goal of method study?
2. How is standard time calculated?
3. Name one tool used in method study.

Answers: 1. To improve the efficiency of work methods. 2. Standard Time = Normal Time + Allowances. 3. Flow Process Charts.