What is Time and Motion Study?

Time and Motion Study (MTM) is an ergonomics discipline focused on analyzing, designing, and improving work systems. This technique is used to optimize the use of time and movements in a job, that is, to improve efficiency and productivity while minimizing costs.

Process Optimization

Time and motion study focuses on optimizing how a worker performs a task, from start to finish. This discipline concentrates on reducing work times, minimizing movements, eliminating redundant steps, increasing productivity, and designing better work systems. This is achieved through the application of various techniques, tools, instruments, and procedures.

The application of time and motion study begins with collecting information about the current task. This includes the time it takes to perform the task, the number of movements, and the amount of energy needed to complete it. This information is analyzed to identify weaknesses in the work system.

Work Method Improvement

Once problems are identified, the goal is to design better work systems that are more efficient and productive. This can be achieved by modifying procedures, using better tools, or installing improved equipment.

Time and motion study has become an indispensable tool for improving productivity and efficiency across a wide range of industries, from manufacturing to agriculture. This discipline helps ensure that workers are working safely, efficiently, and effectively to maximize company benefits.

Comparison Between Different MTM Systems

There are various types of predetermined time standards such as MTM-1, MTM-2, MTM-3, and MTM-UAS, each designed to meet the specific needs of an industry or type of work. These standards allow employees and managers to evaluate and improve the efficiency and productivity of work processes.

Comparison between different MTM systems

TMU as a Unit of Measurement

All MTM-based systems use TMU (Time Measurement Unit), which is equivalent to:

• 1 TMU = 0.00001 Hours
• 1 TMU = 0.0006 Minutes
• 1 TMU = 0.036 Seconds
• 1 Hour = 100,000 TMU
• 1 Minute = 1,667 TMU
• 1 Second = 27.8 TMU

MTM-1: The Original Work Measurement System

MTM-1, developed in 1948 by the Maynard brothers, was the first work measurement system based on breaking down tasks into basic movements. This system is characterized by its precision and complexity.

Basic Movements of MTM-1:

MTM-1 defines 22 basic movements, each with a predetermined time based on micromotion studies. These movements are classified into three categories:

• Reach movements: Used to move the hand toward an object or location.
• Grasp movements: Used to hold or manipulate an object.
• Use movements: Used to perform an action with an object.

Example:

The movement “Reach with the right hand to an object at 30 cm” has a predetermined time of 0.06 minutes.

Precision of MTM-1:

MTM-1 is the most precise MTM system, as it is based on a detailed analysis of worker movements. It allows for determining with great accuracy the time needed to perform a task.

Complexity of MTM-1:

The complexity of MTM-1 is one of its main disadvantages. The system requires extensive training to correctly identify and record basic movements. Additionally, data analysis can be a slow and laborious process.

Applications of MTM-1:

MTM-1 is primarily used in the following areas:

• Industrial engineering: For designing work processes and determining standard times.
• Ergonomics: For evaluating workload and improving workplace ergonomics.
• Training: For training workers in efficient work methods.

Advantages of MTM-1:

• High precision.
• Wide applicability.
• Improves work efficiency.
• Reduces production costs.

Disadvantages of MTM-1:

• Complexity.
• Requires extensive training.
• Slow and laborious data analysis.

Summary:

MTM-1 is a precise and complex work measurement system. It is a valuable tool for industrial engineering, ergonomics, and training. However, its complexity can be a barrier to its adoption in some cases.

MTM-2: A Simplified Work Measurement System

MTM-2, developed under the auspices of the IMD in 1965, is a simplified version of MTM-1. This system seeks a balance between precision and ease of use, making it a more accessible tool for industry in general.

Table of Basic Movements of MTM-2:

MTM-2 reduces complexity by defining only 9 basic movements, or 11 if we separate movements with and without weight:

Note: The table of basic movements for MTM-2 is extensive and contains more than 50 entries with their TMU values and descriptions. For reasons of space and readability, the complete table has been omitted. To consult the detailed table, it is recommended to review the official MTM-2 documentation.

These basic movements combine to form compound movements, which represent more complex tasks.

These tables contain information about the TMU (Time Measurement Units) values for each of the basic movements of the MTM-2 system. TMUs are predetermined time units used to estimate the time it takes a qualified worker to perform a specific movement.

The MTM-2 tables are divided into two main sections:

1. Pick and place movements:

• Table GA: Reach movements without grasping.
• Table GB: Grasp movements.
• Table GC: Difficult grasp movements.
• Table GW: Grasp movements with weight.
• Table PA: Place movements.
• Table PB: Position movements.
• Table PC: Correction movements.
• Table PW: Place movements with weight.

2. Other movements:

• Table R: Regrasp movements
• Table A: Apply pressure movements.
• Table E: Verification movements.
• Table F: Foot movements.
• Table S: Walking movements.
• Table B: Bending and standing movements.
• Table C: Crank movements.

To use the MTM-2 tables, one must:

• Identify the basic movements that make up the task.
• Look up the corresponding TMU value for each movement in the tables.
• Add the TMU values of each movement to obtain the total time for the task.

It is important to note that the MTM-2 tables are an estimation tool. The actual time it takes a worker to perform a task may vary depending on their experience, skill, working conditions, and other factors.

The MTM-2 tables are a valuable tool for industrial engineering, ergonomics, and training. They can be used for:

• Establishing standard times: To determine the time needed to perform a task, which allows for optimizing production planning and control.
• Method improvement: To identify and eliminate unnecessary movements, which increases efficiency and productivity.
• Work evaluation: To determine the workload of a position and establish fair incentives for workers.
• Training: To train workers in efficient work methods.

Precision of MTM-2:

MTM-2 is less precise than MTM-1, but it remains a useful tool for estimating work time. Precision is affected by the simplification of basic movements and the need to interpret worker activities.

Ease of Use of MTM-2:

The main advantage of MTM-2 is its ease of use. The system is simpler to learn and apply than MTM-1, making it more accessible to a larger number of users.

Applications of MTM-2:

It is suitable for use in tasks where the effort part of the work cycle is more than one minute in duration, the cycle is not highly repetitive, and the manual part of the work cycle does not involve a large number of complex or simultaneous manual movements.

MTM-2 is used in a wide range of applications, including:

• Establishing standard times: To determine the time needed to perform a task, which allows for optimizing production planning and control.
• Method improvement: To identify and eliminate unnecessary movements, which increases efficiency and productivity.
• Work evaluation: To determine the workload of a position and establish fair incentives for workers.
• Training: To train workers in efficient work methods.

MTM-2 is used to analyze efficiency in production, especially in large-scale production environments. This technique focuses on reducing cycle times, minimizing displacements, and improving production systems.

Advantages of MTM-2:

• Easy to learn and use.
• Wide applicability.
• Improves work efficiency.
• Reduces production costs.

Disadvantages of MTM-2:

• Less precision than MTM-1.
• Requires training for correct application.
• May not be suitable for very complex tasks.

Summary:

MTM-2 is a precise, easy-to-use, and versatile work measurement system. It is a valuable tool for improving efficiency and productivity across a wide range of industries.

MTM-3: The Simplest and Fastest MTM System

MTM-3, developed in 1970, is the simplest and fastest version of the MTM system. It is based on only 4 basic movements, making it easier to learn and apply than previous versions.

MTM-3 is a predetermined time measurement system used to analyze operations that require precision and speed.

Basic Movements of MTM-3:

Movements in MTM-3 are classified into four categories:

• Handling: Sequence of movements to control an object with the hand or fingers and place it in a new location.
• Transport: Movement whose purpose is to move an object to a new location using the hand or fingers.
• Step and foot movements.
• Bending and standing.

Each category has a series of basic elements with their respective times in TMU (time measurement unit). Below is a list of some of the movements in MTM-3 with their symbols and times:

These basic movements combine to form compound movements, which represent more complex tasks.

Note: The table of basic movements for MTM-3 contains more than 15 entries with categories, elements, symbols, and times. For reasons of space and readability, the complete table has been omitted. To consult the detailed table, it is recommended to review the official MTM-3 documentation.

Precision of MTM-3:

MTM-3 is the least precise MTM system, but it remains a useful tool for estimating work time. Precision is affected by the simplification of basic movements and the need to interpret worker activities.

MTM-3 has an acceptable precision of ±5%, with a confidence level of 95%, for cycles of approximately 4 minutes.

Ease of Use of MTM-3:

The main advantage of MTM-3 is its ease of use. The system is simpler to learn and apply than MTM-1 and MTM-2, making it more accessible to a larger number of users.

MTM-3 is faster and easier to apply than MTM-1 and MTM-2, as it has fewer elements and rules.

Applications of MTM-3:

MTM-3 is more suitable for operations with long and non-cyclical cycles, with little or no repetition, with a wide variety of products, and with constant changes in working conditions.

MTM-3 is used in a wide range of applications, including:

• Establishing standard times: To determine the time needed to perform a task, which allows for optimizing production planning and control.
• Method improvement: To identify and eliminate unnecessary movements, which increases efficiency and productivity.
• Work evaluation: To determine the workload of a position and establish fair incentives for workers.
• Training: To train workers in efficient work methods.

Advantages of MTM-3:

• Easy to learn and use.
• Wide applicability.
• It is estimated that MTM-3 can be applied in one-seventh of the time required with MTM-1.
• Reduces production costs.

Disadvantages of MTM-3:

• Less precision than MTM-1 and MTM-2.
• Requires training for correct application.
• May not be suitable for very complex tasks.

Summary:

MTM-3 is a simple, fast, and versatile work measurement system. It is a valuable tool for improving efficiency and productivity across a wide range of industries.

In addition to the above, here are some additional points to consider about MTM-3:

• MTM-3 is often used in combination with other work measurement systems, such as MOST and operations analysis.
• MTM-3 can be used to analyze tasks with long cycles with little repetition.
• MTM-3 has been successfully used in a wide range of industries, including automotive, electronics, aerospace, and healthcare.

MTM-UAS:

MTM-UAS is an advanced time and motion study technique used to improve work systems in non-traditional environments. This technique focuses on reducing preparation time, increasing productivity, and minimizing risks.

In conclusion, time and motion study is an ergonomics discipline focused on analyzing, designing, and improving work systems. This technique is used to optimize the use of time and movements in a job, that is, to improve efficiency and productivity while minimizing costs. There are various types of predetermined time standards to meet the specific needs of an industry or type of work. The use of this discipline is an indispensable tool for improving productivity and efficiency across a wide range of industries.

MTM-V

(Methods-Time Measurement for metal cutting operations) is a predetermined time system developed for application in metal cutting operations, especially in short runs in machining workshops. Here are some key points about MTM-V:

• Objective: MTM-V is used to establish setup times for all common machine tools, such as lathes, milling machines, drills, etc. Standard times can also be calculated for elements such as preparing and dismounting supports, templates, stops, cutting tools, and indicators.

• Precision and speed: MTM-V does not cover process time involving feeds and speeds, but only the manual movements of the operator. All manual cycles of 24 minutes (40,000 TMU) or more established by MTM-V are within ±5% of those obtained with MTM-1 at a 95% confidence level. Additionally, MTM-V is about 23 times faster than MTM-1, making it very convenient to apply in situations where speed and efficiency are required.

• Origin: MTM-V was developed by Svenska MTM Gruppen, the Swedish MTM Association, in the 1970s, based on the principles of MTM-1. MTM-V is one of several systems derived from MTM-1 that adapt to different types of processes and activities.

If you want to know more about MTM-V, you can consult some of these resources:

• A presentation that shows an example of analysis with MTM-V of a turning operation.

• A note that summarizes the basic concepts of MTM-V and its advantages.

MTM-C

(Methods-Time Measurement for office work) is a predetermined time system used to establish standard times for tasks related to office work, such as filing, data entry, and typing. Here are some key points about MTM-C:

• Levels and categories: MTM-C has two data levels that can be related to the data of MTM-1, the basic MTM system. Each level has nine categories or divisions that describe the movements and activities of the operator. For example, category A corresponds to reaching and moving, category B to turning and releasing, category C to grasping and positioning, etc.

• Coding and calculation: MTM-C uses a six-digit numerical coding system to provide a detailed description of the operation being studied. Each digit represents a characteristic of the operation, such as the type of movement, distance, weight, precision, etc. The standard time of the operation is calculated by adding the times of each digit, according to the MTM-C data tables.

• Application and advantages: MTM-C is widely applied in the banking and insurance sector, where many office work tasks are performed. MTM-C allows for the rapid and precise development of time standards, combining MTM-C data with existing proven standard data or with standard data developed through other sources or techniques. MTM-C level 1 can be calculated faster than MTM-2, and level 2 faster than MTM-3.

In summary, MTM-C is a useful tool for measuring and optimizing time in office work tasks, especially in sectors where organized and efficient processes are required.

MTM-M

Is a system derived from MTM-1 that applies to operations of microscope work.

• MTM-M: A predetermined time system based on the analysis of operating methods by micromovements. It is used to evaluate the work of the operator using a microscope, such as in the field of biology, medicine, or electronics.

• Level and tables: MTM-M is a higher-level system similar to MTM-2, which means it has a lower degree of detail than MTM-1, but greater speed and ease of application. The system has four main tables and one subtable that contain the times of basic movements according to different variables and factors.

• Variables and factors: MTM-M considers four main variables for selecting the appropriate data: the type of tool, the condition of the tool, the characteristics of movement termination, and the distance/tolerance ratio. Additionally, the system takes into account other factors that influence the performance time of the movement, such as the load state of the tool, the power of the microscope, the distance traveled, the positioning tolerance, the purpose of the movement, and simultaneous movements.

In summary, MTM-M is a valuable tool for measuring and optimizing time in tasks that require the use of a microscope, especially in sectors where precision and quality are required.

MTM-TE

System derived from MTM-1 that applies to operations of electronic testing. Here are some key points:

• MTM-TE: A predetermined time system based on the analysis of operating methods by basic tests. It is used to evaluate the work of the operator using electronic equipment, such as in the field of engineering, computing, or communication.

• Levels and elements: MTM-TE has two data levels that are obtained from MTM-1, the basic MTM system. Each level has several elements that describe the movements and activities of the operator. For example, the element take means grasping an object with the hand or fingers, the element move means displacing an object from one place to another, the element identify means recognizing an object or information, etc.

• Application and advantages: MTM-TE applies to electronic testing operations, where the functioning of equipment or a system needs to be verified. MTM-TE allows for the rapid and precise development of time standards, combining MTM-TE data with existing proven standard data or with standard data developed through other sources or techniques. MTM-TE also provides guidelines for research and recommendations for measuring troubleshooting work, which is a complex and variable activity.

In summary, MTM-TE is a useful tool for measuring and optimizing time in tasks that require the use of electronic equipment, especially in sectors where reliability and quality are required.

MTM-MEK

Predetermined time system for unit and small series manufacturing.

MTM-MEK is a tool that allows for measuring and optimizing time in tasks that are not highly repetitive or organized, but require versatility and adaptation on the part of the operator. However, MTM-MEK also has some limitations, such as:

• It is not suitable for highly repetitive and organized operations, where MTM-1 or MTM-2 can be applied with greater precision and detail.

• It does not cover process time involving machine speeds and feeds, but only the manual movements of the operator.

• It does not consider environmental, ergonomic, or psychological factors that can affect operator performance.

• It requires a good definition of structural activities and distance classes, as well as correct data coding.

These limitations do not invalidate the use of MTM-MEK, but indicate the scope of application and the conditions of validity of the system. MTM-MEK remains a useful and effective tool for measuring and optimizing time in tasks that are not routine or standardized.

MTM-UAS

Predetermined time system for series manufacturing.

MTM-UAS is a tool that allows for measuring and optimizing time in tasks that present the characteristics of series manufacturing, such as similar tasks, specific workplace, good organization, detailed instructions, and trained operators.

MTM-UAS is faster and more precise than MTM-1 for this type of task.

MOST

Is a predetermined time system that allows for analyzing any manual operation and some equipment operations. It is based on the concept of fundamental activities, which are the combinations of movements performed to manipulate objects. The basic forms of movements are described by sequences, which are the units of analysis of the system.

The name MOST is derived from the acronym for Maynard Operation Sequence Technique, in honor of Harold B. Maynard, one of the pioneers of time and motion study.

The MOST technique is used to determine standard time, labor cost, production schedule, efficiency, and expenses of a production process. It is also used to improve work methods, reduce waste, optimize workplace design, and increase worker satisfaction.

There are several variants of the MOST technique, depending on the level of detail and precision required. The most common are:

• Basic-MOST: Is the most universal variant and applies to operations that last from less than a minute to about ten minutes. It has three types of sequences: general movement, controlled movement, and tool use.

• Mini-MOST: Is the simplest variant and applies to repetitive and short operations, of less than a minute. It has two types of sequences: general movement and controlled movement.

• Maxi-MOST: Is the most complex variant and applies to non-repetitive and long operations, of more than a few minutes. It has four types of sequences: general movement, controlled movement, tool use, and equipment use.

• Admin-MOST: Is the variant that applies to office work operations, such as filing, data entry, and typing. It has four types of sequences: general movement, controlled movement, tool use, and computer equipment use.

Additional resources:

• MTM.org: https://www.mtm.org/

• Methods-Time Measurement (MTM): https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Methods-Time_Measurement