Overview
Motion study involves scrutinizing the movements required to execute a task with the goal of determining the most effective and efficient way to complete it. It is a crucial aspect of industrial engineering and management, aiming to reduce waste, increase productivity, and ensure ergonomic safety. Frederick W. Taylor, often known as the father of scientific management, and Frank and Lillian Gilbreth, pioneers in motion study, made significant contributions to this field.
Examples
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Assembly Line Production: In automotive manufacturing, motion study is used extensively to minimize the movements workers need to make when assembling vehicles. This can include optimizing the placement of tools and parts to reduce movement and time.
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Surgical Procedures: In healthcare, motion study can analyze the procedures surgeons perform to optimize their movements, reducing time in surgery while maintaining safety and precision.
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Office Workflows: Analyzing the steps an office worker takes to complete tasks, such as data entry or filing, to reduce unnecessary movements and improve overall workflow efficiency.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is motion study?
Motion study is a process used to analyze and streamline the set of motions workers or machines use to perform tasks with the goal of improving efficiency and productivity.
Who developed the concept of motion study?
The concept was primarily developed through the efforts of Frederick W. Taylor, Frank Gilbreth, and Lillian Gilbreth.
How does motion study benefit organizations?
Motion study helps organizations reduce waste, increase productivity, and improve worker safety and ergonomics by identifying the most efficient ways to perform tasks.
Is motion study applicable only to manufacturing industries?
No, motion study is applicable across various industries including healthcare, administrative tasks, construction, and more.
What tools are used in motion study?
Tools used in motion study can include video recording for detailed movement analysis, time-study devices, and motion study charts to document and evaluate actions.
Related Terms
Scientific Management
A management theory developed by Frederick W. Taylor focused on improving economic efficiency, particularly labor productivity, through systematic study and analysis.
Time Study
A method used to establish time standards for performing tasks in the workplace, often used in conjunction with motion study.
Ergonomics
The study of people’s efficiency in their working environment, with the goal of reducing discomfort and risk of injury while improving productivity.
Industrial Engineering
A field of engineering concerned with the optimization of complex processes, systems, or organizations by improving and implementing integrated systems of people, materials, information, equipment, and energy.
Online References
Suggested Books for Further Studies
- “Cheaper by the Dozen” by Frank B. Gilbreth Jr. and Ernestine Gilbreth Carey
- “The Principles of Scientific Management” by Frederick Winslow Taylor
- “Motion and Time Study for Lean Manufacturing” by Fred E. Meyers and James R. Stewart
- “Applied Motion Study: A Collection of Papers on the Efficient Method to Industrial Preparedness” by Frank B. Gilbreth and Lillian M. Gilbreth
Fundamentals of Motion Study: Industrial Engineering Basics Quiz
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