Time and Motion Studies Explained

What is a Time & Motion Study?

A time and motion study is the study of time as it relates to human motion. This study is commonly used for repetitive tasks performed by a fully trained average worker. Tasks are simplified into measurable steps, and the proper time is assigned to each movement according to the joint being moved to complete the motion. Industrial Engineers use Time and Motion Analysis to decompose work tasks into Value Added versus Non-Value-Added segments. Understanding these work segments enable the creation of efficient labor standards.

Work Measurement

How is work measured?

Work can be measured using the following work measurement techniques:

PMTS (Predetermined Motion Time Standards)
- MODAPTS
- MOST
- MTM-UAS
Work Sampling
Production Study
Stopwatch Time Study

PMTS Techniques

PMTS uses Work Measurement to break down each element of work and the motion of a task. Each work element duration (in seconds) is referenced in the PMTS Database. The Industrial Engineer compiles these discrete movements & work elements to compute the total task duration or work content.

PMTS Methods

MODAPTS® - Modular Arrangement of Predetermined Time Standards
MTM® UAS - Methods Time Measurement – Universal Analysis System
MOST® - Maynard Operation Sequence Technique

How to Conduct a Time and Motion Study

Break down the process

It is important to understand the process that you're studying. This could be a manufacturing process, an assembly line, or even a service-based process.
Identify the specific task or tasks you want to study, and create a detailed process map. This will help you to break the task down into smaller, more manageable components.
Determine the criteria for measurement, such as the specific actions required to complete the task, the equipment and tools used, and the specific time intervals for each step.

Use pre-determined data, observe, and measure

Utilizing the predetermined criteria of measurement, document the process and time required to perform tasks.
Observe how the process takes place. Take note of the workers' movements, the tools and equipment they use, and any potential hazards or inefficiencies in the process.
Document the process by timing the worker completing the task, taking note of the specific actions and time intervals.
Pay attention to the sequence of tasks, and how they flow together. This will give you a good overall understanding of the process and help identify areas for improvement.
Collect data based on beginning and end points, this will be used to calculate the time required to complete the task.

Analyze the captured data

Using time study formulas, analyze the data. Compare and contrast the data recorded and notice waste and NVA (Non-Value Added activities) in the process.
Identify the specific steps that are taking too long, or that could be eliminated entirely.
Look for patterns and trends in the data, and use this information to make informed decisions about how to improve the process.
The goal of the time and motion study is to understand the process, identify areas of inefficiency, and suggest ways to streamline the process and increase productivity, minimizing waste.

How to Prepare for a Time and Motion Study

Firmly establish reasoning for the study to identify desired outcomes

What is the purpose of the study?

Choose what is to be measured

Determine which aspects are to be measured, important variables, and set boundaries
Ensure all applicable work content is captured
The more cycles recorded, the more accurate the study will be

Determine the best time to accurately capture data

When are the workers active?
Are there factors like vacations or inoperable machines that would cause a change in average performance?

Follow best practices for collecting data samples

Make sure collected data samples are unbiased according to work instructions
Ensure that data is collected consistently based on earlier determined parameters, preferably in a templated format