Time study in industrial engineering is used primarily to achieve which set of outcomes?
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ADetermine standard costs for labour content
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BDecide how many machines an operator can run (man–machine assignment)
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CProvide a basis for piece rates or incentive wages
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DAll of the above
Answer
Correct Answer: All of the above
Explanation
Introduction / Context:Time study converts observed work into fair standards. These standards drive planning, costing, capacity, and incentive systems, making time study foundational in industrial engineering.
Given Data / Assumptions:
- Stable method and trained operator.
- Use of performance rating and allowances.
- Repetitive operations with measurable cycles.
Concept / Approach:From observed times, compute representative time, normal time, and then standard time by adding allowances. This standard time feeds multiple downstream decisions: cost standards, man–machine charts, and incentive wage plans.
Step-by-Step Solution:
Observe and record multiple cycles.Compute representative time → multiply by rating to get normal time.Add allowances to obtain standard time.Use standard time to cost labour content, determine machine assignments, and set piece rates.Verification / Alternative check:IE references tie time standards directly to cost estimation, line balancing, and wage incentives.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:Each single item is correct but incomplete; the most comprehensive answer is all of them.
Common Pitfalls:Ignoring allowances; using non-representative samples; applying standards without method control.
Final Answer:
All of the above