Time Motion Efficiency Analysis

What is this method about?

A research technique that analyzes work-efficiency by observing and timing a specific series of tasks.

Why use it

This technique helps to determine which activities/tasks are inefficient. It provides organizations with a method for identifying specific actions and elements within a process that can be changed to improve efficiency—saving time and reducing costs. When to use Whenever an organization has a need or desire to evaluate performance or improve efficiency within a specific process or activity. The technique can also be used when change initiatives are being implemented or in assessing suitability of new equipment in an existing operation.

When should I use it?

Whenever a team suspects that a process or task is taking longer than it should, typically when looking for efficiency gains before redesigning a service or workflow.

What you get

The organization will develop a detailed understanding of which activities/tasks can be optimized. Results will be used to improve the efficiency of those specific activities/tasks and build more efficient overall processes.

At a glance

• Time: Long
• Effort: Medium
• Cost: Medium

Materials

• Notepad
• Pen/paper
• Stopwatch
• Spreadsheet to record observation data

Who is involved

• Researchers (as observers)
• Process designer
• Change Manager
• Carried out by several people. .