5 Basic Work Measurement Techniques for Garments Industry

Work measurement involves applying techniques to determine the time a qualified worker needs to complete a given task at a specific level of performance. Its goal is to uncover non-standardization in the workplace and identify non-value-adding activities and waste.

Various techniques such as time study, Predetermined motion time systems (PMTS), and standard data systems are used in work measurements. These techniques aim to accurately quantify the time required for tasks like cutting fabric, sewing seams, adding buttons, or any other operation involved in garment production.

Objectives of Work Measurement

1. Discover and eliminate lost or ineffective time.
2. Establish standard times for performance measurement.
3. Measure performance against realistic expectations.
4. Set operating goals and objectives.
5. Develop the desired system and method that is cost-effective.
6. Standardize the system and method.
7. Determine the time required by a qualified and adequately trained worker working at a regular place to do a specific operation.

Use of Work Measurement in the Garments Industry

1. Set a target time for each job.
2. Sound comparison of alternative methods.
3. Properly balance work distribution.
4. Standardize the efficient method of performing operations.
5. Determine the man and machine ratio for both practical and efficient utilization.
6. Provide information and basis for production planning.

Types of Work Measurement Techniques

Several techniques are employed in work-measurements to accurately quantify work processes. Some of the prominent techniques include:

1. Time Study: Involves direct observation and measurement of the time taken by workers to perform specific tasks under standard conditions.
2. Work Sampling: Involves periodic observations of work activities over a defined period to estimate the proportion of time spent on various tasks.
3. Standard Data Method (SDM): Utilizes predetermined data elements representing standard times for performing specific tasks based on historical data and expert judgment.
4. Predetermined Motion Time Systems (PMTS): Utilizes predetermined motion time values based on predetermined elemental times for basic motions, enabling quick and accurate measurement of work.
5. Analytical Estimation: This technique involves using historical data, expert judgment, and mathematical models to estimate the time required to perform a task or activity.

Benefits of Implementing Work Measurement

Implementing work measurements requires a systematic approach and adherence to established methodologies. Key steps in the implementation process include:

1. Identifying Work Processes: Identify the specific tasks or processes to be measured.
2. Selecting Measurement Technique: Choose the appropriate measurement technique based on the nature of the work and available resources.
3. Conducting Measurements: Perform measurements under controlled conditions, ensuring accuracy and consistency.
4. Analyzing Data: Analyze the collected data to establish standard times and identify areas for improvement.
5. Implementing Improvements: Implement process improvements based on the findings of the work-measurements analysis.

However, implementing work-measurements can present challenges such as employee resistance, lack of standardized processes, and difficulty accurately capturing all aspects of work.

Work measurement in operations management

In the realm of operations management, work measurements play an important role in optimizing processes, enhancing productivity, and ensuring quality. By establishing standard times for tasks and processes, operations managers can:

Optimize Process Flow: Identify bottlenecks and inefficiencies in work processes, allowing for the optimization of process flow and resource utilization.
Enhance Productivity: By setting realistic performance standards based on work-measurements data, operations managers can motivate employees and drive improvements in productivity.
Ensure Quality: Standardizing work processes through work-measurements helps ensure consistency and quality in the outputs, thereby enhancing customer satisfaction.

Conclusion

Work measurements help determine the value-added or non-value-added activities for standard time, aiding in the development of desired system standardization. It plays an important role in ensuring smooth operations and cost-effectiveness within the garment manufacturing process.

Also Read: 7 Steps Of Method Study In The Garments Industry

Check out our YouTube video about Work-Measurements In the Garments Industry

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