Discuss the following techniques of Scientific Work-Study:

a. Time Study

b. Motion Study

c. Fatigue Study.

d. Method Study

e. Simplification and standardization of work

a. Time Study-Time study determines the standard time taken to perform a job. The method of time study depends upon the volume and frequency of the task, the cost of time and the cycle time of the operation. There are three objectives of time study:

a. Determine the number of workers.

b. Determine labour cost.

c. Frame a suitable worker incentive scheme.

To conduct a study, Taylor has suggested to observe a worker while doing his job with a stopwatch in hand and note down the time taken to complete the work. This time should be considered as the average time required for the performance of the job. Keeping this time in mind, the target for workers should be fixed and those workers who were able to achieve these targets are called average workers. If a worker can achieve the target before the standard time he is called an efficient worker. If he is not able to achieve the target before the standard time he is called and inefficient work.

b. Motion Study-Motion study refers to the movement such as lifting, changing position, sitting, etc. There are three types of motions- productive, incidental and productive.

To conduct a motion study, Taylor has suggested to observe an average worker when he is performing a job and note all his movements. All the unwanted motions should be eliminated so that the work can be completed in lesser time. All movements must be classified as productive, unproductive and incidental. All the unproductive movement must be eliminated.

c. Fatigue Study-The study determines the amount and frequency of rest intervals that a person takes to complete a task. A person would be tired both physically and mentally if it does not take a rest while working. This would allow the workers to work again with the regained stamina and the same efficiency. This study identifies the interval that is required while completing a task.

d. Method Study-Method study aims at determining the best method to complete a task. All the different managers can employ different methods for the same but there is one method which is the most optimum of all. The main objective is to minimize the cost of production and maximize the satisfaction of the consumer. The Assembly line of Ford motor is an example of the same.

e. Simplification and standardization of work- Standardization refers to the process of setting a standard for every business activity. It establishes the standards of excellence and quality in material and Standards of performance of man and machine.

Simplification refers to the elimination of unnecessary diversity of products. It helps to utilize the resources in the most optimum whey and remove unnecessary costs.