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Why MTM Analysis?

METHODS-TIME MEASUREMENT (MTM)

The definition of MTM is given as:

A procedure which analyses any manual operation or method into the basic motions required to perform it, and assigns to each motion a predetermined time standard, determined by the
nature of the motion and the conditions under which it is made.

Methods-Time Measurement is the leading technique in the field of Methods Engineering and the determination of Time Standards.

MTM is an integrated problem-solving procedure which complements other Management Services approaches, and reinforces the trend towards computer applications within
Management Information Systems.

It is the emphasis on methods, and the link from methods to time, which induces the problem-solving approach. This leads to better solutions to the challenge and greater satisfaction for the engineer.

These factors promote the use of MTM data in the rigorous procedures demanded by ISO9000 and BS5750 when organisations submit applications for quality accreditation.

Contact: Phil Gaynard email pgaynard@aol.com who kindly supplied the

Methods-Time Measurement Background

The term 'Management Services' embraces a group of disciplines such as Industrial Engineering, Organisation & Methods, Total Quality Management and Business Process Re-engineering.

These disciplines have two main areas of investigation -

Methods Study develops a new way of working for a proposed new product, or examines an existing work procedure to devise a more efficient way of working.

Work Measurement measures the time taken to perform a task according to the specified method. Standards can then be set for operating procedures, planning and control, costing, and for payment systems.

Industrial Engineering is primarily concerned with the efficient use of manpower, machines and materials in industrial applications.

Organisation & Methods brings the problem-solving approach to the office environment.

The basic MTM data was developed by H B Maynard, J L Schwab and G J Stegemerten of the Methods Engineering Council during a consultancy assignment at the Westinghouse Brake and Signal Corporation, USA in the 1940's.

This data and the application rules for the MTM system were refined under industrial tests and documented as a result of further work in later years.

In 1948 Maynard, Stegemerten and Schwab published the book "Methods-Time Measurement" giving full details of the development of the MTM system and its application rules.

The use of MTM spread, firstly in the USA, and then to
other industrialised countries. In 1951 the US/Canada MTM Association for Standards and Research was formed by MTM users. The system originators then assigned the MTM copyrights to the MTM Association.

Its basic data is accepted throughout the world in many differing work environments.

MTM is a family of systems which has evolved through a
progressive programme of research and development directed to practical solutions for application requirements. MTM has been used in British Industry since the 1950's in fields as diverse as shipbuilding, car assembly, warehousing, domestic appliance manufacture, banks, electronics, clerical, insurance, administrative functions and civil services departments.

The range of operations includes product design, machine shops, fabrication, assembly, needle trades, counter transactions, maintenance and service routines and any area where time schedules are required to effect control of
the business.

Consultancy Phil Gaynard email pgaynard@aol.com