Work Simplification and Time and Energy Management
Work simplification is the systematic redesign of a task so that it is finished with fewer motions, less fatigue and no loss of quality. The exam tests motion-economy principles, work charts, time plans and energy-saving scheduling.
Core concepts
- Principles of motion economy associated with Gilbreth: use both hands, arrange tools in a fixed order, keep materials within the normal working area, use gravity and momentum, use stronger muscles for heavy work, use labour-saving devices and avoid unnecessary lifting, carrying and holding.
- Techniques: process chart (sequence of operations), path chart (movement), operation chart (hand movements), time and motion study, standardisation of equipment and supplies, pre-preparation, dovetailing and combining tasks.
- Time management: list tasks, prioritise important and urgent work, make a realistic time plan, group similar tasks, delegate to family members and protect blocks of time from interruptions.
- Energy management: balance heavy and light tasks, sit for long jobs, keep often-used items at work centres, avoid repeated stair climbing and schedule heavy work at peak-energy hours.
Worked example
For breakfast and tiffin, put water to boil, soak dal, cut vegetables while the cooker heats, pack the tiffin while breakfast cooks and carry everything on one tray. The reasoning is that dovetailing overlaps waiting time, and a fixed work centre reduces steps and reaches.
Traps
Confusing work simplification with skipping necessary work; attributing motion economy only to Taylor; making a time plan with no review; treating energy management as exercise.