Discuss the following techniques of Scientific Work Study:
(a) Time Study
(b) Motion Study
(c) Fatigue Study
(d) Method Study
Answers
SOLUTION :
(a) Time study :
This study average time required to perform a particular job with the help of several readings. This study helps in fixing standard wages, number of workers required and suitable incentives and determining labour costs.
(b) Motion study :
The purpose of this study determines to find out and eliminate unnecessary movements of the employees while lifting, sitting, changing positions and working on machines. This study helped Taylor to reduce many unnecessary and incidental movements which enhanced efficiency and effectiveness in the production process.
(c) Fatigue study :
Everyone needs rest intervals while working. The purpose of the study is to find out rest intervals required by the employees while doing a job. Rest intervals are necessary in a small breaks for tea, snack and lunch. If heavy work is involved, frequent rest intervals are unnecessary to recharge energy level.
(d) Method study :
There can be various alternatives to perform particular job and the purpose of this study is to find out the best way out for doing such job. Finding the best method from the stage of procurement of raw materials till the goods are delivered to the door of the customers are the part of method study.
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Answer:
(a) Time Study– In this technique Taylor emphasised on setting a standard time limit for completing any particular job. With the help of time measuring tools, considerable readings were taken for the time taken to complete a task. On the basis of this a standard time limit is set for each task. This helped in deciding the number of workers to be employed for the task, determining their wages, etc. For example, if, on the basis of observations it is determined that one person can finish making 1 shirt in two hours then, in a working day of 8 hours, each worker should make 4 shirts.
(b) Motion Study– As the name suggests, motion study refers to the study of motion (movements) involved while undertaking a task. This technique aims at removing the unwanted actions/motions so that the work can be completed in a lesser time. Taylor along with his associate Frank Gailberth observed the motions of a worker and categorised them as productive, incidental and unproductive. They demonstrated that by eliminating the unproductive movements productivity can be increased. For example, in brick layering they demonstrated that productivity increased by nearly 4 times by reducing the motions from 18 to 5.
(c) Fatigue Study– This technique is regarding requirement of rest or break during the work. If a worker works continuously physical and mental fatigue sets. This reduces his/her efficiency. Thus, the worker requires rest or break. Fatigue study identifies the intervals required while completing a task. It suggests that standard break timings should be decided for improving the working performance of workers.
(d) Method Study– This study aims at finding out the best method of completing any work. It takes into account each and every activity involved in the task. It helps in reducing the costs and maximising the satisfaction of the customers. Assembly line production, used by Ford Motors is a popular example of method study.
(e) Simplification and Standardization of Work– Taylor holds up standardization as the very basis of techniques of scientific management. Standardization as the word suggests implies setting of milestones or benchmarks for any work or activity. Various other techniques by Taylor, such as method study, fatigue study and time study are also based on the concept of standardization.