Group Timing Technique

Work Measurement
 Introduction
• A fixed short-interval work sampling
procedure.
• Substitute for the traditional stop watch
timing procedures
 Work sampling
• In this a no. of observations are made over a period of that
activity. The percent of observations recorded for a particular
activity is a measure of the percentage of time during which
that activity occurs.
• It is based on Statistical theory of sampling – ie adequate
random samples of observations spread over a period of time
can construct an accurate picture of the actual situation of
system.
• No. of observations required for 95%
confidence level and ±5% accuracy (ie we are
sure that 95% of the time the average value
will not be having error more than 5% of the
true value.
• N = 4p(100-p) (p = percent of occurance)
 Steps for Work sampling
There are several recommended steps when starting to prepare a work sampling study:
• Define the manufacturing tasks for which the standard time is to be determined.
• Define the task elements. These are the defined broken-down steps of the task that will
be observed during the study. Since a worker is going to be observed, additional
categories will likely be included as well, such as "idle", "waiting for work", and "absent".
• Design the study. This includes designing the forms that will be used to record the
observations, determining how many observations will be required, deciding on the
number of days or shifts to be included in the study, scheduling the observations, and
finally determining the number of observers needed.
• Identify the observers who will do the sampling.
• Start the study. All those who are affected by the study should be informed about it.
• Make random visits to the plant and collect the observations.
• After completing the study, analyze and present the results. This is done by preparing a
report that summarizes and analyzes all data and making recommendations when
required.
 Uses
• In initial applications, to ensure that the time standards do in fact cover all
the activities involved.
• To check the accuracy of time standards.
• To observe the incidence of waiting time and other delays to which the
operative may be subject.
• To obtain data on which to compile interference and contingency allowances.
• To record the performance of a section or a department for future reference.
• As a check when the output of an operative is showing a downward
trend.
• As a check on the amount of relaxation actually taken by the workers, to
compare this with the aggregate amount of the relaxation allowance
embodied in the standard times.
 Advantage
• Work Sampling is used for activities of very
long duration which cannot be measured with
stopwatch. Eg to find out actual working time
of an operator in one shift.
 CASE STUDY
STUDY NO 1 TIME STUDY CONTINUATION SHEET SHEET NO 1 OF 4

R WR ST BT
Start 8 am 000
Clean machine table, switch on power, 75 50 50 38
take gauge from tool locker and 75 362 37 28
prepare workplace

A (Machine time) 444 82

H (Unload, clean machine, reload,
start auto cycle, clean, gauge and put 85 579 135 115
aside)

A 597 18
H 90 725 128 115
A 750 24
H 80 1501 127 114
Speak to Foreman
A 1647 24
H 100 1767 132 112
A 1942 130
H 85 2652 19 110

Etc.