People have been searching for the most efficient ways to work for the longest time. Frederick W. Taylor is one of the experts who wrote a book on the subject, both literally and figuratively.
Taylor’s concepts made a significant contribution to efficiency studies. The time and motion study is among his significant contributions.
The study is about evaluating the movements required to achieve a certain role and the time it takes. Time & motion study, at its core, seeks to drive productivity from a workforce.
What is Time and Motion Study?
The time and motion study consists of two components – the time study by Frederick Taylor and the motion study by Frank B. and Lillian M. Gilbreth. Taylor began time studies in the 1880s to determine the duration of specific tasks under particular conditions. A few other studies came before Taylor, but his had the most impact. The time study was a component of the scientific management theory. Taylor’s approach focused on reducing time wastage for maximum efficiency.
Motion study by the Gilbreths evaluated movements and how they can improve work methods. Frank and Lillian Gilbreth pursued motion study to apply scientific management. Taylorism, as the theory is called, had a significant flaw. It lacked a human element. Critics said that Taylor’s approach was solely about making a profit.
The Gilbreths included several variables while studying how to increase efficiency. Some of them are health, skills, habits, temperament and nutrition. In the book “Gilbreth and Gilbreth,” the two experts explain that motion study examines the fatigue that workers experience and then finds ways to eliminate it. They recommended solutions like rest and recovery periods, as well as chairs and workbenches.
Implementation of the scientific management theory was one of the first instances in which process improvement and process management were treated as a scientific problem.
Why are time and motion studies important?
These studies help businesses:
- Identify inefficiencies in workflows.
- Standardise best practices.
- Enhance employee productivity.
- Reduce operational costs.
- Improve resource allocation.
By understanding how tasks are performed, businesses can implement changes that lead to significant improvements in performance and profitability.
Application of Time-Motion Study in Today’s Business
Every task you do, except for thinking, requires some movement. Whether it’s typing code, plugging in a pressure washer or sketching and building a plan, movement is key. It’s why the time & motion study is applicable even in the modern environment.
By analysing how employees operate and the time they spend, a company can pinpoint where the problem is. Removing inefficiencies increases staff productivity.
For example, finding a better way to manufacture a car means that production time is reduced and output increases. Excessive motion is the most significant cause of time wastage. Completing a task in ten steps, when seven could have easily accomplished the same results, means that a worker is wasting a lot of resources.
How do you conduct a time and motion study?
Conducting a time and motion study typically involves the following steps:
- Select the task: Choose a specific task or process to analyse.
- Break down the task: Divide the task into individual elements or steps.
- Observe and record: Measure the time taken for each element and note the motions involved.
- Analyse data: Identify areas where time or movements can be reduced.
- Develop improvements: Propose changes to streamline the process.
- Implement changes: Apply the proposed improvements.
- Monitor results: Assess the impact of changes and make further adjustments as needed.
Tools like stopwatches, video recordings, and specialised software can aid in data collection and analysis.
Implementation The Study Improves Processes
Proper implementation of time-motion study allows you to improve processes and optimise performance. Better working methods boost efficiency and decrease fatigue in workers. Effectiveness is not just about how hard you work, but how smart you are.
Time-motion theory enhances resource planning and allocation. When you know how much time and movements particular tasks require, you can apportion the necessary resources. Decreased costs are another advantage. The better you plan resources and the more work the staff accomplishes, the higher the cost savings. Remember to measure how much time workers save after implementing changes.
Once you grasp how time and motion study fits into everyday operations, you can use the time and motion study theory to get the most out of employees.
What are the challenges of conducting time and motion studies?
Challenges may include:
- Employee resistance: Workers may feel scrutinised or fear job loss.
- Observer bias: The presence of an observer can alter employee behaviour.
- Data accuracy: Ensuring precise measurement requires careful planning.
- Resource intensity: Studies can be time-consuming and require dedicated personnel.
Addressing these challenges involves clear communication, employee involvement, and proper training for those conducting the studies.
Questions Time and Motion Studies
What is the difference between a time study and a motion study?
A time study focuses on measuring the duration it takes to complete a task, while a motion study analyses the physical movements involved in completing that task. The goal of motion study is to eliminate unnecessary movements and improve ergonomics, whereas time study aims to determine the most efficient time frame to complete a task.
Combining both gives a holistic view of efficiency and productivity.
Are time and motion studies still relevant today?
Yes — more than ever. While initially developed during the industrial era, modern businesses use time and motion studies to improve workflows in:
- Software development (e.g., measuring coding or QA time)
- Remote team management
- Customer service optimisation
- Lean startups and agile project teams
These studies can now be enhanced with digital tools, wearables, AI, and real-time data analytics.
Can time and motion studies improve employee well-being?
Yes — if conducted thoughtfully. While the goal is often efficiency, the byproduct can be:
- Less physical strain from better ergonomics
- Reduced burnout through more balanced workloads
- Increased job satisfaction by removing unnecessary or frustrating tasks
Necessary: Involve employees in the process to avoid distrust and ensure the improvements serve everyone.
What is an example of a time and motion study?
Example: A warehouse manager notices that order picking is slow. After conducting a time-and-motion study, they found that employees walk back and forth excessively between shelves and packing stations. By reorganising product locations and streamlining the walking route, they reduce pick time by 30%.
This kind of insight translates into cost savings, faster turnaround, and happier staff.
What are the ethical considerations of time and motion studies?
- Employee consent: Ensure staff know why and how they’re being observed.
- Privacy concerns: Be transparent if using video or tracking software.
- Impact on morale: Avoid making workers feel like they are being overly monitored or judged.
Best practice is to frame the study as a collaborative tool for workplace improvement, not as a performance trap.