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The science behind time studies: How did Taylor reshape management concepts?
Time and motion study is a business efficiency technique that combines the time studies of Frederick Winslow Taylor and the motion studies of Frank and Lillian Gilbreth. This approach was a large part of scientific management (Taylorism), which aimed to improve work processes and increase efficiency through scientific methods. In traditional corporate management, the application of this method is not limited to factories, but also extends to service organizations such as banks, schools and hospitals.
Definition and steps of time study
Time studies involve direct and continuous observation of a task and the use of a timing device (such as a stopwatch, computer-assisted electronic stopwatch, etc.) to record the time required to complete the task. According to the Standards of Industrial Engineering Terminology, time study is defined as "a work measurement technique performed by time measuring instruments that involves careful time measurement of a task and adjustments for observed deviations from normal effort or pace, leaving sufficient time to account for External factors, unavoidable delays, fatigue, rest and personal needs. ”
The rise of action researchThe basic steps of a time study include defining and documenting a standard method, dividing tasks into work elements, timing to obtain observed times, assessing workers' work pace, and calculating normal time. Finally, the standard time is calculated by adding the allowance factor.
In contrast to Taylor's approach to time, Gilbreth proposed a technical language that enabled the analysis of the labor process to be carried out in a scientific context. Gilbreth's research method was based on the analysis of "work movements", which were recorded by photographing workers' specific activities and body postures. These films not only provide a visual record of the work, but can also be used to train workers to optimize their work methods.
Taylor vs. Gilbreth Although Taylor considered motion study to be subordinate to time study, his recognition of Gilbreth's method showed his emphasis on the technique. Over time, the Gilbreths' research came under criticism, but they were convinced that the spread of motion research could increase industrial output and improve the physical and mental health of workers.Their main challenge was to prove that scientific management could indeed increase production without violating the physical and mental conditions of the workers. This is not just an academic discussion, but also a struggle involving labor relations.
Time and Motion Studies in Health Care
In the medical field, time and motion studies are used to evaluate the efficiency and quality of health care workers. Studies of nurses have shown that following focused interventions, many hospitals have increased the time nurses spend directly caring for patients to more than 70%, significantly reducing the incidence of errors and other adverse events.
Changes in Methods and Practices
Specific methods for conducting time studies include external observation, self-reporting, and automated data tracking. Each method has its advantages and disadvantages. External observation generally provides more consistent and accurate data, while self-reporting is subject to errors in time perception and memory.
Conclusion Although the concept of time and motion study has experienced many criticisms and challenges, it is undeniable that this method has been widely used in various industries and has had a profound impact on management thinking. As the industry continues to evolve, how to find the most effective working model remains a major challenge facing current managers. In future management practices, can we balance the contradiction between efficiency and humane management?Today's technological advances have made automated tracking possible, such as tracking movements through GPS and monitoring software for document activities, which provide more assurance of the accuracy of time and motion studies.
