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Historical Foundations of Human Factors
Published in Robert W. Proctor, Van Zandt Trisha, Human Factors in Simple and Complex Systems, 2018
Robert W. Proctor, Van Zandt Trisha
Taylor is best remembered for developing a school of thought that is referred to as scientific management (Taylor, 1911/1967). He made three contributions to the enhancement of productivity in the workplace. The first contribution is known as task analysis, in which the components of a task are determined. One technique of task analysis is time-and-motion study. With this technique, a worker’s movements are analyzed across time to determine the best way to perform a task. Taylor’s second contribution was the concept of pay for performance. He suggested a “piecework” method of production, by which the amount of compensation to the worker is a function of the number of pieces completed. Taylor’s third contribution involved personnel selection, or fitting the worker to the task. While personnel selection is still important, human factors emphasizes fitting the task to the worker. Although many of Taylor’s contributions are now viewed as being dehumanizing and exploitative, Taylor’s techniques were effective in improving human performance (i.e., increasing productivity). Moreover, time-and-motion study and other methods of task analysis still are used in contemporary human factors.
Investigating effectiveness of time studies in lean construction projects: case of Transbay Block 8
Published in Production Planning & Control, 2022
Sevilay Demirkesen, Emel Sadikoglu, Eshan Jayamanne
Time and motion study is a Lean method to track productivity. Thomas et al. (1990) stated that time and motion study is ‘the systematic study of work systems for the purpose of finding and standardizing the least-cost method and determining standard times and assisting in training in the preferred method’. Time and motion study is described by Barnes (1949) as ‘the analysis of the methods, of the materials, and of the tools and equipment used, in the performance of a piece of work – an analysis carried on with the purpose of (1) finding the most economical way of doing this work; (2) standardising the methods, materials, tools, and equipment; (3) accurately determining the time required by a qualified person working at a normal pace to do the task; (4) and assisting in training the worker in the new method’. Time and motion studies help comprehend the nature of the work to take management decisions such as costs, prices, wages, number of equipment and worker. These studies also provide an assistance to smooth the workflow (Meyers and Stewart 2002). Time and motion study is amongst most effective Lean techniques measuring labour productivity. Some authors argue that time study and motion studies are different in terms of their principles and techniques (Ferguson 1997). However, common practice shows that time and motion studies are implemented together since they complement each other (Barnes 1949). Motion study provides elimination of steps, provide work simplification and improvement of methods resulting time and cost savings, reduced human effort and waste (Meyers and Stewart 2002; Barnes 1949).