Chapter 11: Work Study and Productivity

11.1 Introduction

Work Study is a systematic examination of methods of carrying out activities to improve efficiency and productivity. It involves the analysis of human work and its processes to identify and eliminate unnecessary elements.

It consists of two major components:

• Method Study: Focuses on how the job is done.

• Work Measurement: Focuses on how long the job takes.

Both aim to improve productivity, which is the ratio of output to input in any production process.

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11.2 Objectives of Work Study

• Improve efficiency of operations

• Eliminate wasteful activities

• Standardize methods of working

• Reduce fatigue and effort

• Enhance productivity and output quality

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11.3 Method Study

Method Study is concerned with analyzing existing methods and developing more efficient ways of doing work.

Steps in Method Study:

1. Select – Choose the job or process to be studied.

2. Record – Gather facts using diagrams and charts.

3. Examine – Critically evaluate existing methods.

4. Develop – Design improved work method.

5. Install – Implement the new method.

6. Maintain – Monitor and sustain improvements.

Tools Used:

• Process charts (Operation, Flow Process, Two-Handed)

• Flow diagrams

• String diagrams

• Motion study techniques

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11.4 Work Measurement

Also known as Time Study, it establishes the time required to perform a task using the best method.

Techniques of Work Measurement:

• Stopwatch Time Study

• Predetermined Motion Time Systems (PMTS) – e.g., MTM, MOST

• Work Sampling – Random observations

• Synthesis Method – Using standard time data

• Analytical Estimating – Expert judgment

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11.5 Productivity

Productivity is defined as:

It can be improved by:

• Better methods

• Skilled labor

• Technological upgrades

• Motivated workforce

• Efficient planning and control

Types of Productivity:

• Labor Productivity

• Machine Productivity

• Material Productivity

• Total Productivity

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11.6 Factors Affecting Productivity

• Skill level of workforce

• Machine and equipment condition

• Work environment and ergonomics

• Management practices

• Quality of materials

• Technology and automation

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11.7 Importance of Ergonomics in Work Study

Ergonomics focuses on designing tasks and workplaces to fit human capabilities. Benefits include:

• Reduced fatigue and injury

• Increased comfort

• Enhanced performance

• Fewer errors

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11.8 Role of Work Study in Industrial Engineering

• Foundation for job evaluation and incentive schemes

• Basis for setting standard times and rates

• Input for production planning and scheduling

• Essential for operations improvement and lean manufacturing

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Conclusion

Work Study is a core technique in industrial engineering used to optimize work methods and measure performance. When applied correctly, it leads to significant improvements in productivity, efficiency, and employee satisfaction. Understanding and implementing work study contributes to better resource utilization and competitiveness.

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Exercises

A. Short Answer Questions

1. Define work study.

2. What are the components of work study?

3. Name any two techniques of work measurement.

4. What is productivity?

B. Long Answer Questions

1. Explain the steps involved in method study.

2. Compare method study and work measurement.

3. Discuss the factors that influence productivity in an organization.

4. Describe various types of productivity and how to improve them.

C. Multiple Choice Questions

1. Work measurement is also called:
   a) Job analysis
   b) Time study
   c) Motion study
   d) Production control

2. Which of the following is a technique used in method study?
   a) Gantt chart
   b) String diagram
   c) Line balancing
   d) Brainstorming

3. Productivity is the ratio of:
   a) Input to output
   b) Output to output
   c) Output to input
   d) Input to cost

Answers: 1–b, 2–b, 3–c

D. Practical Task

Observe any manual or semi-automated task (e.g., packaging, clerical work, workshop activity). Prepare a brief report using method study steps. Suggest any improvements that could increase productivity.

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