Work study is a generic term for those techniques, particularly method study and work measurement, which are used in the examination of human work in all its contexts, and which lead systematically to the investigation of all the factors which affect the efficiency and economy of the situation being reviewed, in order to effect improvement
Objectives of work study :
1. The most effective use of plant and equipment. 2. The most effective use of human effort 3. The evaluation of human work.
Techniques of Work study :
1. Method study 2. Work measurement
Method study : Definition :
Method study is the systematic recording and critical examination of existing and proposed ways of doing work, as a means of developing and applying easier and more effective methods and reducing costs.
Basic Procedure of Method study :
While examining a given problem there has to be a definite and ordered sequence of analysis. Such a sequence may be summarised as follows :
1. DEFINE the problem 2. OBTAIN all relevant facts 3. EXAMINE the facts critically and impartially 4. CONSIDER the alternatives and decide which to follow. 5. ACT on the decision 6. FOLLOW up the development.
The six steps in sequence may be summarised in Select - Record -Examine - Develop - Install - Maintain. These are the six essential stages in the application of method study : none can be excluded. "Strict adherence to their sequence, as well as to their content, is essential for the success of an investigation".
Three basic factors must be considered while selecting a work for method study : These are :
A. Economic Factor B. Technical Factor C. Human Factor
Uses of various symbols and