The methods study comprises eight fundamental stages:
1. Select the task or process to be studied. For this we will consider those tasks that have a higher cost, require a greater number of workers to perform, generate bottlenecks, are very repetitive within the production process or involve greater risk; in short, those tasks whose improvement will have the greatest impact on the company.
2. Record through data collection or direct observation. We will collect all data related to the operator, the material, the work equipment, the time spent on each task, the route of both the worker and the materials and finished products, etc.
3. Examine the recorded facts with a critical spirit. The objective will be to discover the reason for carrying out each of the activities in order to discover existing deficiencies and implement possible improvements. For this, we will use the questioning technique, asking ourselves the following questions for each of the activities:
Purpose
- What is done?
- Why is it done?
- What else could be done?
- What should be done?
Place
- Where is it done?
- Why there?
- Where else could it be done?
- Where should it be done?
Sequence
- When is it done?
- Why then?
- When could it be done?
- When should it be done?
Person
- Who does it?
- Why them?
- What other person could do it?
- Who should do it?
Means
- How is it done?
- Why that way?
- In what other way could it be done?
- How should it be done?
4. Create new alternative methods to the current one. We will propose our new improved method.
5. Evaluate the results of the different solutions, comparing the previous method with the new method.
6. Define the new method and present it to management. Once it has been determined which is the best method, we will present it for implementation.
7. Implement the new method and train staff to apply it.
8. Control the application of the new standard, following the results obtained and comparing them with the expected objectives.
Conclusion
Mastering industrial time study techniques is essential for any professional seeking to optimize production processes. The systematic application of these methods not only improves operational efficiency but also significantly contributes to cost reduction and increased business competitiveness. Remember that precision in measurement and rigorous data analysis are the basis for establishing reliable time standards that drive continuous improvement in your organization.
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