Syllabus

Introduction to Work System Design & Productivity
This unit introduces the concept, purpose, and scope of work of system design in manufacturing and service environments. It covers fundamental principles of productivity, dimensions and indicators of productivity, and various models used for measuring productivity. Students will explore factors influencing productivity, reasons for low productivity, and commonly used productivity improvement techniques supported by introductory case examples.

Work Study- Concepts, Work Content & Method Study
This unit focuses on the philosophy and methodology of work study. Students will learn about the definition and elements of work content, steps involved in work study procedures, and the human and organizational aspects of work analysis. Method study techniques such as recording and analyzing existing work procedures will be introduced, forming the foundation for systematic method improvement.

Recording & Analysis Tools for Method Study
This unit covers tools and graphical techniques used to observe, record, and analyze work systems. Students will study operation process charts, flow process charts, two-handed process charts, multiple activity charts, and flow diagrams to represent current work methods. The unit also includes an introduction to string diagrams, principles of motion economy, therbligs, micro-motion study, SIMO charts, and chrono-cycle graphs for detailed motion analysis and identification of unnecessary movements.

Work Measurement- Time Study, Work Sampling & PMTS
This unit explains the purpose and techniques of work measurement. Students will learn the steps involved in conducting a time study, using timing equipment, performance rating, allowance determination, and computation of standard time, accompanied by numerical problem-solving. Work sampling as a technique for estimating work performance in variable tasks will be studied. The unit also introduces synthetic data and predetermined motion time systems (PMTS), including MTM and MOST.

Ergonomics & Work System Improvement- Applications and Case Studies
This unit emphasizes ergonomics as a critical component of effective work system design. Topics include industrial ergonomics, anthropometry, human–machine system design, workplace layout, and ergonomic risk assessment. Real-time case studies (such as ergonomic analysis of office chairs, assembly line stations), computer workstations, and vehicle seating are discussed to demonstrate practical application of work system design principles. Students will conclude with group-based project work proposing improvement solutions for real-world systems.

Understand foundational principles of productivity and work study within industrial and service-sector environments.

Learn and practice structured approaches for analyzing, evaluating, and improving work methods.

Apply techniques of time study, work measurement, ergonomic assessment, and motion economy for designing efficient work systems.

Develop the capability to plan, design, and implement improved work systems using charts, diagrams, and scientific tools.

Gain exposure to real-world applications through case studies covering both manufacturing and service systems.

Explain the concepts of work system design, productivity, and productivity measurement models.

Analyze work content and existing work methods using work-study tools, charts, and motion analysis techniques.

Apply time study, performance rating, allowances, and standard time computation for work measurement.

Use work sampling and predetermined motion time systems (MTM, MOST) to evaluate and compare work performance.

Design ergonomically efficient and human-centered workstations and propose data-based improvement solutions for real-world systems.

Alan Dennis, Barbara Haley Wixom, Roberta M. Roth , Systems Analysis and Design, 8th Edition, Wiley

Mikell P. Groover , Work Systems: The Methods, Measurement & Management of Work, Wiley