Tool 201: Time Study Sheet

AKA

N/A

Classification

Changing/Implementing (CI)

Tool description

The time study sheet is a recording form that displays the cycle time used to complete a task on the first attempt, second attempt, and so on. It can potentially identify a trend or pattern caused by some process variation or change in the use of tools, layout, or sequence steps. The form is also used to show calculations such as average cycle time, various adjustments, and recommended time to be recorded as a standard.

Typical application

• To establish criteria of performance.

• To calculate average cycle times for performing tasks.

• To collect cycle time data for constructing a cycle time flow chart.

Problem-solving phase

→	Select and define problem or opportunity
→	Identify and analyze causes or potential change
	Develop and plan possible solutions or change
→	Implement and evaluate solution or change
→	Measure and report solution or change results
	Recognize and reward team efforts

Typically used by

	Research/statistics
	Creativity/innovation
2	Engineering
3	Project management
1	Manufacturing
	Marketing/sales
	Administration/documentation
	Servicing/support
	Customer/quality metrics
4	Change management

Notes and key points

• Record cycle time in seconds, minutes, or hours.

• Make adjustments for performing difficult task elements.

• Make allowances for variations in working conditions.

links to other tools

before

• Data Collection Strategy

• Observation

• Activity analysis

• Checksheet

• Task Analysis

after

• Process Analysis

• Problem Specification

• Potential Problem Analysis (PPA)

• Variance Analysis

• Cycle Time Flow Chart

Step-by-step procedure

• STEP 1 Identify the tasks and elements to be measured. List them on the time study sheet. See example Calculating Average Cycle Time for Spring Assembly.

• STEP 2 Determine how often elements of the task are to be measured and take measurements. Record measurements and calculate average cycle time (CT).

• STEP 3 Note any difficulties; make allowances as deemed appropriate.

• STEP 4 Summarize and date the time study sheet as shown in this example.

Example of tool application