Time Study: Setting the Production Standard
A time study is a work-measurement technique that determines the rate at which an operation is performed, in order to develop and check production standards. Analysts study an operation while a style is in production. It suits high-volume, highly repetitive work (typically a progressive bundle system). Here's the 8-step procedure and the standard-time formula.
The 8-step procedure
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Select garment - one not studied before, while in production |
| 2 | Identify operation - the specific process, with a method description |
| 3 | Break into elements - motion groups with a definite start/end (machine-controlled elements separated from manual) |
| 4 | Select operator - a qualified one (skill, experience, temperament) |
| 5 | Record cycle time - stopwatch readings over 10–20 cycles (min 10); average = observed time |
| 6 | Adjust rating factor - rate the operator vs a normal (100%) worker |
| 7 | Determine allowances - add non-productive time (machine, relaxation, interference, process, contingency, special) |
| 8 | Determine production standard - the final SAM/SMV |
The elements of a sewing operation
Typical elements: picking up and positioning parts, matching and aligning, positioning to needle/presser foot, sewing, and disposing of parts. Machine-controlled elements are separated from manual ones because they're constant.
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Time Study: Setting the Production Standard
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