Time Study

Introduction

Time Study is an important technique used in Work Study and Ergonomics to improve productivity and efficiency. It involves the systematic observation, measurement, and analysis of work tasks to determine the time required to perform them. By accurately measuring the time taken for each task, organizations can identify areas for improvement, standardize work processes, and increase overall efficiency.

Definition of Time Study

Time Study can be defined as the process of establishing the time required by a qualified worker to perform a specific task, with a defined method, under specified conditions, and at a defined level of performance. It involves breaking down the task into smaller elements, recording the time taken for each element, and rating the worker's performance.

Role of Time Study in improving productivity and efficiency

Time Study plays a crucial role in improving productivity and efficiency in organizations. Some of the key benefits of Time Study include:

• Standardization of work processes: Time Study helps in establishing standard times for performing tasks, which enables organizations to set realistic targets and measure performance against them.
• Identification of bottlenecks and areas for improvement: By analyzing the time taken for each task, organizations can identify bottlenecks and areas where productivity can be improved.
• Optimization of resource allocation: Time Study helps in determining the number of workers required to perform a task and the optimal allocation of resources.

Key Concepts and Principles

Time Study Equipment

Time Study requires the use of appropriate equipment to accurately measure the time taken for each task. There are different types of equipment used in Time Study, including:

1. Stopwatch: A stopwatch is a handheld device used to measure the time taken to perform a task. It is commonly used for tasks that require manual dexterity or involve repetitive motions.
2. Time Study Board: A time study board is a visual tool used to record the time taken for each task. It consists of a board with columns for recording the task, the time taken, and any additional notes.

It is important to select the appropriate equipment for accurate measurements. Factors to consider when selecting time study equipment include the nature of the task, the level of precision required, and the ease of use.

Selection of Job for Time Study

Before conducting a Time Study, it is important to select representative jobs that are suitable for analysis. The selection of jobs for Time Study should be based on certain criteria, including:

1. Frequency: Jobs that are performed frequently should be selected for Time Study, as they have a significant impact on overall productivity.
2. Complexity: Jobs that are complex and require multiple steps or skills should be selected for Time Study, as they provide valuable insights into the time required for different elements of the task.

Selecting representative jobs is important to ensure accurate results that can be generalized to similar tasks within the organization.

Steps in Time Study

Time Study involves several steps that need to be followed systematically to obtain accurate results. The key steps in Time Study include:

1. Breaking Jobs into Elements

Breaking jobs into elements involves dividing the task into smaller, meaningful units called elements. Each element represents a distinct action or movement required to complete the task. Breaking jobs into elements is important for accurate analysis and measurement of time.

For example, in a manufacturing process, the task of assembling a product can be broken down into elements such as picking up a component, placing it in position, tightening screws, and inspecting the final assembly.

1. Recording Information

Once the job is broken down into elements, the next step is to record the time taken for each element. There are different methods of recording time data, including:

• Time Study Board: A time study board can be used to record the time taken for each element. The time study board consists of columns for recording the task, the time taken, and any additional notes.
• Stopwatch: A stopwatch can be used to measure the time taken for each element. The stopwatch is started at the beginning of the element and stopped when the element is completed.

It is important to record the time data accurately and consistently to ensure reliable results.

1. Rating

Rating is the process of evaluating the worker's performance in terms of pace and effort. It involves assigning a rating to each element based on the worker's performance. The rating takes into account factors such as the worker's speed, skill level, and effort exerted.

The rating is usually expressed as a percentage, with 100% representing the standard performance. For example, if a worker completes an element in 80% of the standard time, the rating for that element would be 80%.

1. Systems of Rating

There are different systems of rating used in Time Study, including:

• Time Rating: In this system, the time taken by the worker is compared to the standard time for the task, and a rating is assigned based on the percentage of the standard time.
• Performance Rating: In this system, the worker's performance is evaluated based on predetermined performance levels. The rating is assigned based on the level of performance achieved.

Each rating system has its advantages and disadvantages, and the choice of system depends on the specific requirements of the organization.

Typical Problems and Solutions

Problem: Inaccurate time measurements

One common problem in Time Study is inaccurate time measurements. This can occur due to various reasons, such as human error or equipment malfunction. To address this problem, the following solutions can be implemented:

1. Training and calibration of time study personnel: Time study personnel should be trained on the proper techniques and procedures for conducting time studies. They should also be periodically calibrated to ensure accurate measurements.
2. Use of appropriate time study equipment: It is important to use the appropriate equipment for time measurements. This includes using calibrated stopwatches and ensuring that the equipment is in good working condition.

Problem: Difficulty in breaking jobs into elements

Another common problem in Time Study is the difficulty in breaking jobs into elements. This can occur when the task is complex or when there are multiple steps involved. To address this problem, the following solutions can be implemented:

1. Use of work sampling techniques: Work sampling techniques can be used to observe and analyze the task over a period of time. This helps in identifying the different elements and their time requirements.
2. Consultation with subject matter experts: Subject matter experts can provide valuable insights into the task and help in breaking it down into meaningful elements.

Real-World Applications and Examples

Time Study in Manufacturing Industry

Time Study is widely used in the manufacturing industry to improve productivity and efficiency. Some examples of Time Study in the manufacturing industry include:

1. Example: Time Study in assembly line production

In assembly line production, Time Study is used to determine the time required for each task in the assembly process. This helps in identifying bottlenecks and areas for improvement, such as reducing cycle times or eliminating unnecessary steps.

1. Example: Time Study in machine operation

In machine operation, Time Study is used to determine the time required for each operation, such as setup time, processing time, and downtime. This helps in optimizing machine utilization and improving overall efficiency.

Time Study in Service Industry

Time Study is also applicable in the service industry, where it is used to improve the efficiency of service delivery. Some examples of Time Study in the service industry include:

1. Example: Time Study in call center operations

In call center operations, Time Study is used to determine the time required for each call handling process, such as answering calls, resolving customer queries, and documenting customer information. This helps in identifying areas for improvement, such as reducing call handling time or improving first-call resolution rates.

1. Example: Time Study in healthcare settings

In healthcare settings, Time Study is used to determine the time required for various healthcare processes, such as patient registration, consultation, and medication administration. This helps in optimizing resource allocation and improving patient flow.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Time Study

Advantages

Time Study offers several advantages for organizations, including:

1. Improved productivity and efficiency: By analyzing the time taken for each task, organizations can identify areas for improvement and implement measures to increase productivity and efficiency.
2. Standardization of work processes: Time Study helps in establishing standard times for performing tasks, which enables organizations to set realistic targets and measure performance against them.
3. Identification of bottlenecks and areas for improvement: By analyzing the time taken for each task, organizations can identify bottlenecks and areas where productivity can be improved.

Disadvantages

Despite its advantages, Time Study also has some disadvantages, including:

1. Time-consuming process: Time Study requires significant time and effort to conduct, especially for complex tasks or large-scale operations.
2. Resistance from workers: Workers may resist Time Study, viewing it as a means of surveillance or increased workload. This can affect the accuracy and reliability of the data collected.
3. Potential for inaccurate measurements if not conducted properly: Time Study requires careful planning and execution to ensure accurate measurements. Inaccurate measurements can lead to incorrect conclusions and ineffective process improvements.

Summary

Time Study is a technique used in Work Study and Ergonomics to improve productivity and efficiency. It involves the systematic observation, measurement, and analysis of work tasks to determine the time required to perform them. Time Study equipment, such as stopwatches and time study boards, is used to accurately measure the time taken for each task. The selection of representative jobs and breaking them into elements are important steps in Time Study. Recording accurate time data and assigning ratings based on worker performance are crucial for reliable results. Time Study has real-world applications in industries such as manufacturing and services, where it helps in identifying areas for improvement and optimizing resource allocation. Despite its advantages, Time Study can be time-consuming, face resistance from workers, and may lead to inaccurate measurements if not conducted properly.

Analogy

Imagine you are baking a cake. To ensure that the cake turns out perfect, you need to follow a recipe and measure the ingredients accurately. Time Study is like following a recipe for baking a cake. It involves breaking down the task into smaller elements (measuring ingredients), recording the time taken for each element (mixing, baking, decorating), and rating the worker's performance (evaluating the taste and presentation of the cake). Just as following a recipe helps in achieving a delicious cake, Time Study helps in achieving efficient and productive work processes.