Work Study Definition

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 to the investigation of all the factors which affect the efficiency and economy of the situation being reviewed, in order to effect improvement'

British Standards Institution approved definition B.S. 3138: 1959:

Work Study is the systematic study of an operation or process to ensure the best possible use of the human and material resources available. The prime aim is to improve productivity.

The application of Work Study to a department or company is made to improve the existing method of operation, as a result change will occur which will affect all personnel - irrespective of status.

For the application to be successful, due regard must be paid to the reactions of all concerned.

The object of applying Work Study is to obtain the optimum use of the human and material resources, which are available to it. The benefits may stem from improvements in one or more of the following:

Increased production and productivity
Reduced costs - labour, material, overheads
Improvement of conditions, which involve an element of excessive fatigue or danger
Improved quality
Better control of costs
The Benefits of Work Study

Work Study can considerably increase productivity. People can benefit from, less tiring work, better working conditions and, because an efficient company can meet competition successfully, better employment prospects.

Work Study raises efficiency by RE-ORGANISATION OF WORK. It therefore need involve little or no capital expenditure. Yet, where such an outlay is desirable, Work Study can ensure that it is spent to the best advantage.

Work Study is systematic; its procedures are designed to ensure that no factors affecting the situation are overlooked.

It is the best means available for setting STANDARDS OF PERFORMANCE, and although often seen as the basis for incentives, the real value lies in the information provided for work scheduling, estimating deliveries and for accurate costing.

Work Study produces savings very quickly and these gains continue as long as the improved methods evolved are maintained.

Work Study is a UNIVERSAL TOOL, it is not confined to the workshops but can be equally effective in the office, warehouse, and in distribution, etc.

Work Study is the most searching technique available because it takes every fact into account. It reveals weaknesses often overlooked in the day to day working.