ABSTRACT
This chapter presents work study techniques with the aim of improving the input resource factors used in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). These techniques are referred to as method study and work measurement. This chapter further contributes a detailed understanding of various work study characteristics, such as the traits of work study specialists; the expertise of work study specialists; work study and relations with management, supervisors, workers, and trade unions; and the structure of work study in SMEs.
Method study is discussed in detail based on aspects such as method study procedure and techniques. These procedures include the selection of the job to be studied; the recording of relevant information; the critical examination of recorded information; the development and definition of the new method to management; installation of the new method after approval; and maintenance. Techniques entail method study preliminary survey studies such as interviews, observations, and questionnaires; benchmarking; brainstorming; process flow charts; outline process charts; two-handed process charts; multiple activity charts; diagrams; film techniques; value-stream mapping; cause-and-effect diagrams; and business process reengineering. The final topic to be discussed is the analysis of current method study applications in South Africa.
