Time study definitions: Is the normal time greater than the standard time for a task?

Introduction / Context:
Industrial time study distinguishes among observed time, normal time, and standard time. Understanding their relationships is essential for fair work measurement and incentive planning.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Observed time is the raw stopwatch time for a worker at a particular performance rating.
• Normal time adjusts observed time to 100% performance.
• Standard time includes allowances for personal needs, fatigue, and unavoidable delays.

Concept / Approach:
By definition, Normal time = Observed time * Performance rating. Standard time = Normal time * (1 + Allowance fraction). Since allowance fraction is positive, Standard time >= Normal time, and typically standard time is strictly greater.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
Check example: To = 1.00 min, R = 1.00, A = 15%. Tn = 1.00, Ts = 1.15 > 1.00.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Answer “Yes” contradicts the allowance structure embedded in standard time.

Common Pitfalls:
Forgetting to apply allowances; using inflated ratings to compensate for missing allowances; double-counting delays in both observed time and allowance.

Final Answer:
No