MOST®

1
Introduction to Work Measurement
Definition
Work measurement is the application of techniques designed to establish the time for an average worker to carry out
specified manufacturing task at a defined level of performance. It is concerned with the length of time it takes to
complete work task assigned to a specific job.

Techniques of Work Measurement

• Estimation
• Historical Data
• Time Study
• PMTS (Predetermined Motion Time Standard)

To overcome the drawbacks of other work measurement techniques PMTS was evolved taking best of both Time and
Motion Study. PMTS helps the analyst focus on actual work being accomplished, not on the operator.

Using an economical predetermined motion time system, the planning and budgeting process could be accomplished
with confidence. Knowing the time to manufacture and assemble various parts and/or components, a manager could:

• Determine the total labor cost for a product or service.

• Determine the number of workers or staff needed.
• Determine the type and capacity of equipment needed.
• Determine the amount and delivery times for materials.
• Determine the overall production or service schedule.
• Determine the feasibility of new products and services.
• Set and follow-up on production or service goals.
• Measure individual or departmental performance.
• Obtain predicted costs of production or service.
• Implement a performance-based pay system.

The first PMTS placed in the public domain, Methods Time Measurement (MTM) was developed in 1948 and was widely
accepted. Even though MTM was exact system it was also very slow to apply and chances of analysts making error were
very high. Later on further improvisation of MTM came into effect which was widely accepted across the world. E.g.
MTM-1, MTM-2, MTM-UAS, MTM-MEK and MTM-B.

Because industrial engineers are taught that with sufficient study any method can be improved, many efforts
have been made to simplify the Work Measurement analyst’s task. The result was the creation of MOST°
(Maynard Operation Sequence Technique) which was introduced in 1972 for general industrial application.
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2
Introduction to MOST®

Introduction to MOST
To most people, work means exerting energy to accomplish a task or to perform a useful activity. In the study of physics,
it is learned that work is defined as the product of force times distance (W = f x d), or more simply, work is the
displacement of a mass or object. This definition applies quite well to the largest portion of the work accomplished every
day (e.g., pushing a pencil, lifting a heavy box or operating the controls on a machine). Thought process or thinking time
is an exception to this concept, as no objects are being displaced. For the overwhelming majority of work, however,
there is a common denominator from which work can be studied; the displacement of objects. All basic units of work are
organized (or should be) for the purpose of accomplishing some useful result by simply moving objects. That is what
work is. MOST® is a system to measure work. Therefore, MOST concentrates on the movement of objects.

It was noticed that the movements of objects follow certain consistently repeating patterns, such as reach, grasp, and
move, position the object, etc. To move an object a standard sequence of events occurs. Consequently, a universal
sequence model instead of random, detailed basic motions describes the basic pattern of an object's movement.

In general, objects can be moved in only two ways; either they are picked up and moved freely through space, or they
are moved while maintaining contact with another surface. For example, a box can be picked up and carried from one
end of a workbench to another or it can be pushed across the top of the workbench.

For each type of move, a different sequence of events occurs; therefore, a separate MOST° activity sequence model
applies. However, the use of tools is analyzed through a separate activity sequence model.

Consequently, three MOST°' activity sequences are needed for describing manual work:

• The General Move Sequence (for the spatial movement of an object freely through air).
• The Controlled Move Sequence (for the movement of an object when it remains in contact with a surface or is
attached to another object during the movement or has restriction in its movement).
• The Tool Use Sequence (for the usage of common hand tools).

MOST is a breakthrough work measurement technique that allows a greater variety of work for manufacturing,
engineering to administrative service activities to be measured quickly with ease and accuracy. This enables today's
engineers and analysts to expose wastes and unproductive methods of work quickly and rectify problems at the
workplace as they arise at the design stage. What MOST° can do for an organization includes: accurate work standard,
capacity analysis, manpower planning, workplace design and job activity analysis for reorganization and allocation,
work balancing, cost estimating for existing and new processes etc.

The Maynard Operation Sequence Technique MOST makes the measurement of work a practical efficient and
inexpensive task for the industrial engineer. A powerful analytical tool that helps increase productivity, improve
methods, facilitate planning, establish workloads, estimate labour costs, improve safety and maximize resources. MOST
can be applied to any type of work for which a method can be defined and described. Because of its universal
applicability MOST has become the standard for thousands of companies in a broad range of industries. User friendly
and easy to learn MOST has been accepted by countless industries as one of the best work measurement techniques
available.
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Versatility of MOST®
Because MOST® is a universal technique with applicability to any kind of manual work situations for which the method
can be described explicitly, it can be used in both traditional and ’new’ work measurement areas. So far, MOST has been
used most extensively in the metal working industry. Standards based on MOST are now in use for the manufacturing of
products and components in electronics, automotive, power generating and packaging as well as shipbuilding and other
heavy industries.

MOST has also been tested and found ideally suited for work measurement in other industries such as furniture and
food, and for non-manufacturing work such as clerical and maintenance.

Coverage:
MOST® is available for whatever type of work is being measured, including common manufacturing operations in
machining, fabrication and assembly, non-repetitive long cycle, highly variable material handling and a variety of other
short or long cycle activities. What’s more, MOST*' has a proven record of success in these and other industries:

Aerospace Agricultural machinery Automotive

Warehousing Commercial aircraft Construction
Defenses Electronics Food
Processing Glass Maintenance
Furniture Rail car manufacturing Utilities
Metal working Ship building Steel mills

Advantages of MOST®:
• Reduces the costs and paperwork and improves productivity.
• Streamlines operations and quickly identifies inefficient methods.
• Provides consistent standards and accuracy within +l-- 5 % and confidence level of 95 %
• Can be applied to any method defined manual work
• Reduces the time required for data development and standard setting
• It is very easy to learn and use; even non industrial engineers require little training
• Can be applied largely from memory
• MOST° interfaced with ERP l MRP (SAP) is most effective tool for total Cost Management through Activity Based
Costing l Management
• MOST° is one of the fastest ways available to accurately measure work

Time Units:
The Time Units used in MOST° are based on hours and parts of hours called Time Measurement Units (TMU). The
following conversion table is provided for calculating standard times

1 TMU= 0.00001 hour 1 hour=100,000TMU

1 TMU= 0.0006 minute 1 minute= 1667TMU

1TMU= 0.036 second 1 second= 27.8TMU

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The time value in TMU for each sequence model is calculated by adding the index numbers and multiplying the sum by
10. It is then converted to hours, mins. or secs. Total time for adding the computed sequence times arrives at the
complete MOST analysis.

All time values established by MOST reflect the activity of an average skilled operator working at an average
performance level or normal pace. This time represents pure work content at 100% performance level.

Sequence Model
In MOST activity sequence models are made up of various parameters. These parameters are arranged in sequence
model consisting of series of letter organized in a logical sequence. The sequence model defines the events or actions that
always take place in a prescribed order when an object is being moved from one location to another

Activity Sequence Model Parameter

General AB G AB PA A Action Distance

Move B Body Motion
G Gain Control
P Placement
Controlled AB G M X IA M Move Controlled
Move X Process Time
I Alignment
Tool Use AB G A B P T AB PA
F Fasten
L Loosen
C Cut
S Surface Treat
M Measure
R Record
T Think
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Parameter Indexing
’Parameter indexing' is the application of time related index values to each sequence model parameter based on the
motion content. It is defined as 'the process of selecting the appropriate parameter variant from the reference table or
data card and applying the corresponding index value'.

3
The General Move Sequence Model

General Move deals with the spatial displacement of one or more objects. Under manual control, the object follows an
unrestricted path through the air. If the object is in contact with, restricted by or attached to another object during the
move, the General Move Sequence Model is not applicable. Such a move will be defined later in the chapter as a
Controlled Move activity.

As defined in Chapter 2, MOST° deals with the movement of objects. One or more objects can be moved with one or
both hands. For simplification of the text, when one object is referenced it can mean one or more objects unless it
specifically states only one object in the definition.

General Move follows a fixed sequence of sub-activities identified by the following steps:

• Reach with one or two hands a distance to an object either directly or in conjunction with body motions or steps.
• Gain manual control of the object.
• Move the object a distance to the point of placement, either directly or in conjunction with body motions or
steps.
• Place the object in a temporary or final position.
• Return to the workplace

These five sub-activities form the basis for the activity sequence describing the manual displacement of one or more
objects freely through space. This sequence describes the manual events that can occur when moving an object freely
through the air and is known as the General Move Sequence Model. The major function of tie sequence model is to
guide the attention of the analyst through a process, hereby adding the dimension of having a structured and
standardized analysis format. The existence of the sequence model provides increased analysis consistency and reduces
sub-activity omission.

The Sequence Model

The sequence model takes the form of a fixed series of letters (called parameters) representing each of the various sub-
activities of a General Move. The parameters of the General Move Sequence Model identify the sub-activities included
in the five-step pattern already indicated:

ABG ABP A

Where: A=Action Distance B =Body Motion G = Gain Control P= Placement

The sequence models used in MOST represent the complete activity of moving one or more objects from one location to
another or the activity of using tools. The analyst should always identify such ’complete activities’ before selecting the
appropriate sequence model and assigning the applicable index values.
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Parameter Definitions
A Action Distance

This parameter is used to analyze all spatial movements or actions of the fingers, hands and/or feet, either loaded or
unloaded (loaded means carrying an object, unloaded means the hands are free). Any control of these actions by the
surroundings requires the use of other parameters.

B Body Motion

This parameter is used to analyze either vertical motions of the body or the actions necessary to overcome an
obstruction or impairment to body movement.

G Gain Control

This parameter is used to analyze all manual motions (mainly finger, hand and foot) employed to obtain complete
manual control of an object and release the object after placement. The G parameter may include one or more short
move motions whose objective is to gain full control of the object before it is to be moved to another location.

P Placement

This parameter is used to analyze actions at the final stage of an object's displacement to align, orient and/or engage the
object with another object before control of the object is relinquished.

Phases of the General Move Sequence Model

The displacement of an object through space occurs in three distinct phases as shown by the following General Move
Sequence Model breakdown:

Where:
Get Put Return
A Action Distance B Body Motion ABG ABP A

G Gain Control P Placement

The first phase, referred to as Get, describes the actions to reach the object with body motions (if necessary) and gain
control of the object. The A parameter indicates the distance the hand or body must travel to reach the object, and B
indicates the need for any body motions during this action. The degree of difficulty encountered in gaining control of the
object is described by the G parameter.

The Put phase of the sequence model describes the action to move the object to another location. As before, the A and
B parameters indicate the distance the hand or body travels with the object and the need for any body motions during
the move before the object is placed. The manner in which the object is placed is described by the P parameter.

The third phase simply indicates the distance traveled by the operator to return to the workplace following the
placement of the object or to clear the hands from inside a machine to allow it to process.
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The MOST® analyst should strictly adhere to the three – phase breakdown of the General Move Sequence Model, Such
adherence provides consistency in application and ease in communication.

4
The Controlled Move Sequence Model

Controlled Move describes the manual displacement of an object over a ’controlled’ path. That is, movement of the
object is restricted in at least one direction by contact with or attachment to another object or the nature of the work
demands that the object be deliberately moved along a specific or controlled path. Similar to the General Move
Sequence Model, the Controlled Move Sequence Model follows a fixed sequence of sub-activities identified by the
following steps:

Reach with one or two hands a distance to the object, either directly or in conjunction with body motions or steps. Gain
manual control of the object. Move the object over a controlled path (within reach or with steps). Allow time for a
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machine process to occur. Align the object following the Move Controlled or at the conclusion of the Process Time.
Return to the workplace.

These six sub-activities form the basis for the activity sequence describing the manual displacement of an object over a
controlled path.

The Sequence Model

The sequence model takes the form of a series of letters (parameters) representing each of the various sub-activities of
Controlled Move.

AB G M X IA

Where: A=Action Distance

B = Body Motion
G = Gain Control
M = Move Controlled
X= Process Time
I =Alignment

Parameter Definitions
Only three new parameters are introduced in Controlled Move. The A, B and G parameters were discussed with the
General Move Sequence Model and remain unchanged.

M Move Controlled

This parameter is used to analyze all manually guided movements or actions of an Object over a controlled path.

X Process Time

This parameter is used to account for the time for work controlled by electronic or mechanical devices or machines, not
by manual actions.

I Alignment

This parameter is used to analyze manual actions following the Move Controlled or at the conclusion of Process Time to
achieve the alignment of objects.

Phases of the Controlled Move Sequence Model

A Controlled Move is performed under one of three conditions.

1. The object or device is restrained by its attachment to another object such as a button, lever, door or crank;

2. It is controlled during the move by the contact it makes with the surface of another object, such as pushing a
box across a table; or

3. The object must be moved on a controlled path to accomplish the activity such as folding a cloth, coiling a rope,
winding a spool or moving a balanced item or to avoid a hazard, such as electricity, sharp edges or running
machinery.
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If the object can be moved freely through space and remain unaffected by any of these conditions, its movement must
be analyzed as a General Move.

A breakdown of the Controlled Move Sequence Model reveals that, like General Move, three phases occur during the
Controlled Move activity:

Control Move Sequence Model breakdown:

Where:
Get Move Return

ABG MXI A
M Move Controlled

X Process Time

I Alignment

The Get and Return phases of Controlled Move carry the same parameters found in the General Move Sequence Model
and therefore describe the same sub-activities. The fundamental difference lies in the activity immediately following the
G parameter. This phase describes actions either to simply move an object over a controlled path or to actuate a control
device-often to initiate a process. Normally, ’Move’ implies that the M and I parameters of the sequence model are
involved and 'Actuate' usually applies to situations involving the M and X parameters. Of course, for either situation
(Move or Actuate) any or all of the parameters in the sequence model could be used, and all should be considered. A
move, for example, would occur when opening a tool cabinet door or sliding a box across a table. Engaging the clutch on
a machine or flipping an electrical switch to start a process are examples of actuate.
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5
The Tool Use Sequence Model

Manual work is not always performed with the hands alone. The use of tools extends the strength and capabilities of the
hands through leverage. Even though much mechanization has occurred in industry, a large and very critical portion of
work remains literally ’in the hands of the worker’. Because of the desirability of having the MOST® Work Measurement
Technique apply to all manual work and since the analysis of the frequent use of certain tools through a series of
General and Controlled Moves could take additional time and result in inconsistent applications, a third manual
sequence model was developed - the Tool Use Sequence Model.

The Tool Use Sequence Model is comprised of phases and sub- activities from the General Move Sequence Model, along
with specially designed parameters describing the actions performed with hand tools or, in some cases, mental
processes required when using the senses as a tool.

The Sequence Model

Tool Use follows a fixed sequence of sub-activities, which occur in five phases:

1. Get Tool or Object:

a. Reach with hand a distance to tool or object, either directly or in conjunction with body motions or
steps.
b. Gain manual control of the tool or object.
2. Put Tool or Object in Place:
a. Move the tool or object a distance to where it will be used, either directly or in conjunction with body
motions or steps.
b. Place the tool or object in position for use.
3. Tool Action:
a. Apply number or extent of Tool Action
4. Put Tool or Object Aside:
a. Retain the tool or object for further use (hands and fingers are of course always retained), toss or lay the
tool aside, return the tool to its original location or move it to a new location for disposition, either
directly or in conjunction with body motions or steps.
5. Return:
a. Return to Workplace

The five sub-activity phases just listed form the basis for the activity sequence describing the handling and use of hand
tools. The sequence model takes the form of a series of letters representing each of the various sub-activities of the Tool
Use Sequence Model:

Tool Use Sequence Model breakdown:

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Where:

Get Tool Put Tool Tool Action Aside Tool Return

ABG ABP T ABP A

F, L, C, S, M, R, T

“T" in the sequence model ('Tool Action’ phase) is provided for the insertion of one of the following Tool Action
parameters. These parameters, which refer to the specific tool being used, are as follows:

Where:
F = Fasten, L = Loosen, C = Cut, S = Surface Treat, M = Measure, R = Record, T= Think
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Typical Output Showing Work Content Data & Operating Motion Losses
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Details of the Parameters used in MOST®

Details of various parameters used in three sequence models are as follows:

General Move Sequence Model

A-Action Distance - Action Distance covers:

• All spatial movement or actions of the fingers, hands andlor feet, either loaded or unloaded
• Walking up and down normally inclined stairs
• Walk times based on steps not distance
• One step is 2.5 feet or 0.75 meters

Number of steps = number of times the foot hits floor

A0 <=2 Inches 5cm

Any Displacement of the fingers, Hands and or feet a distance less than or equal to 2 inches (5 Cm) will carry a Zero
Index Value. Time for traveling these short distances is included in Gain Control and Placement Parameters.

A1 Within Reach

Actions confined to an area within the arc of the outstretched arm pivoted about the shoulder.

A3 One or Two Steps

The Trunk or the body is shifted or displaced by walking, stepping to the side or turning the body using one or two steps.
Steps refer to the total number of times the foot hits the floor. Index value of up to 10 steps is given in the data Card.

For More than 10 steps Index value is given in the table. While using the table the preferred method is to count the
number of steps taken. Research has shown that time required to take a step is constant regardless of the size of the
load carried.

Final A

The final a parameter in the General Move Sequence Model is normally used to allocate time for an operator to return
by walking to his or her workplace (starting position). This allows for a logical break between sequence models. If all
activities begin and end at the same location, gaps and overlaps can be avoided.

Time for returning the hands without steps is normally not allowed in the last A parameter, since moving the hand to
another object or objects is part of the initial A parameter of the subsequence sequence model.

Any movement of the hand to gain control of another object will be included in the Action Distance values of the next
sequence model.

B - Body Motion

Used to analyze either vertical motions of the body or the actions necessary to overcome an obstruction or impairment
to body movement.
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B3 Sit or Stand

When the body is simply lowered onto a seat from an erect position without hand or foot motions required
manipulating the seat. Or, the body is raised from a seated position without the aid of hand or foot motions, then B3 Sit
or Stand is appropriate. This value covers either sit or stand not both.

B6 Bend and Arise

From an erect position, the trunk of the body is lowered by bending from the waist andlor knees to allow the hands to
reach below the knees and subsequently return to an upright position. B6 may be -

• Simple bending from the waist with the knees stiff.

• Stooping down by bending at the knees.
• Kneeling down on one knee.

B3 Bend and Arise 50% Occurrence

When "Bend and Arise" is required only 50% of the time during a repetitive activity such as stacking or un-stacking
several objects, apply a B3.

B10 Sit or Stand with adjustments

• When the act of sitting down or standing up requires a series of several hand, foot and body motions to move a
chair or stool into a position that allows the body to either sit or stand B10 is appropriate.
• All motions to manipulate the seat and the body are included in B10.
• B10 Covers sit or stand, not both.

B16 Stand and Bend

• Occasionally a person sitting at a desk must stand up and walk to a location to gain control of an object placed
below the knee level where a bend and arise is required.
• The index value for stand and bend most commonly appears on the B parameter in the Get phase of the
sequence model.
• This combined body motion can be used as long as the actions are contained in a specific phase of the sequence
model; in this case the Get phase.

Example: A secretary stands from the chair, walks three steps and bends to open a file drawer and arises.

B16 Bend and Sit

• This occurs when a Bend and Arise is required followed by a sit.

• The index value for Bend and Sit commonly occurs in the put phase of the sequence model. This combined body
motion can be used as long as the actions are contained in a specific phase of the sequence model, in this case
the put phase.

Example: A chemist bends to place a sample on the bottom shelf of a case, arises and then sits down at the desk five
steps away

B16 Climb On or Off

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• This parameter variant covers climbing on or off a work platform or any raised surface (approximately 3 feet or 1
m high) using a series of hand and body motions to lift or lower the body. Climbing onto a platform is
accomplished by first placing one hand on the edge and then lifting the knee to the platform. By placing the
other hand on the platform and bending forward, the weight of the body is shifted, allowing the other knee to
be lifted onto the platform. This activity is completed by arising from both knees.
• Climbing off the platform consists of the same actions, but performed in the reverse order. B16 covers either sit
Climb On or Climb Off, not both.

Example: Climb onto a truck frame on an assembly line to attach a bracket for the exhaust system.

B16 through Door

• Passing through a Door normally consists of reaching for and turning the handle, opening the door, walking
through the door and subsequently closing the door. The value will apply to virtually all hinged, double, sliding
or swinging doors, Automatic doors do not require the same manual activities as other doors and would be
assigned a B0 value.
• The steps required to pass through the doorway are included in B16 value.

G - Gain Control

All manual motions (mainly finger, hand or foot) employed to obtain complete manual control of an object and release
the object after placement.

G1 Light Object

This is to be used as long as no difficulty is encountered in gaining control of the object. One or both hands may be used
as long as only one object is obtained and accessible for simultaneous grasps of both hands. If several objects are
grouped together or arranged in such a way that they may be picked up as one object, G1 will still apply

Example: Grasp two paperback books wrapped together in shipping paper

G1 Light Object Simo

Simo refers to manual actions performed simultaneously by different body members. That is, one hand gains control of
a light object (G1), while the other hand obtains another light object (G1). The total time in this case is no more than
that required to gain control of one light object.

• Grasp a hammer with one hand and a nail with the other hand at the same time.
• Simultaneously obtain a pencil and clip board with two hands.

G3 Light Object Non-Simo

While the operator is unable to gain control of two objects or of two suitable grasping points of one object
simultaneously. With both hands, the operator reaches to the objects simultaneously and then, while one hand is
grasping the object, the other hand will pause before it can grasp the other object

G3 Heavy or Bulky
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Control of heavy or bulky objects is achieved only after the muscles are tensed to a point at which the weight, shape or
size of the object are overcome. This variant can be identified by the hesitation or pause needed for the attainment of
sufficient muscular force required to move the object.

Poorly located objects, even smaller or lighter ones, for example may require some hesitation or movement of the body
for balance or additional muscular control of the leverage.

Examples:
• Get hold of a box located on the floor.
• Brace arms around a large, empty television packing box.

G3 Blind or Obstructed

The accessibility of the object is restricted because an obstacle either prevents the operator from seeing the object or
creates an obstruction to the hand or fingers when attempting to gain control of the object.

Examples:
• Obtain a washer from a stud located on the other side of a panel (blind).
• Work around objects to gain control of the keys in the back pocket
• Reach behind back of a machine to grasp a wire.

G3 Disengage

The application of muscular force is needed to free the object from its surroundings. Disengage is characterized by the
application of pressure to overcome the resistance, followed by the sudden recoil of the object. The recoil should
however follow an unrestricted path through the air.

Examples:
• Disengage a tightly fitting socket from a ratchet tool.
• Remove cap from a marker

G3 Interlocked

The object is intermingled or tangled with other objects and must be separated or worked free before complete control
is achieved.

Examples:
• Remove a hammer from a crowded toolbox (the hammer is buried beneath other tools).
• From a box of rubber bands, gain control of one rubber band that is tangled with another.

G3 Collect

Gain control of more than one object may be accomplished with the G3, collect. The objects may be jumbled together in
a pile or spread out over a surface. If jumbled, the control of several objects is achieved by reaching down into the pile
with the hand and bringing up a handful. When spread out, the objects may be swept together with the hand and
fingers and picked up as one object.

Examples:
• Collect a handful of nails from a bin.
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• Get a handful of change from your pocket.
• Gather up a pen, pencil and eraser spread off on a desk with one sweeping motion of the hand.

P - Placement

• Actions occurring at the final stage of an object’s displacement to align, orient or engage the object with another
before control of the object is relinquished.

The index value for P is chosen by difficulty of method encountered during the placement. An index value for P is never
chosen by the weight of the object alone. Although the weight may influence the difficulty in placement, it is the
difficulty of method that determines the value chosen for P, not the weight.

Example:
• A heavy suitcase may simply be put to rest on the floor, in which case P1 (Lay aside) may be chosen.
• A light package when squeezed into a tight space between two other boxes on a shelf, then a P6 (Heavy
Pressure) is appropriate.

(Placement includes a limited amount of insertion (up to 2 inches, 5 cm). For insertions greater than this, both General
Move and Controlled Move must be used. This will be explained in next section)

P0 (Pickup / Hold)

For this rule to apply, the object is moved to an unspecified location and placement does not occur. The object is picked
up in the Gain Control followed by an Action distance and then held. Placement occurs in a later method step.

Example: Pick up packing slip from table.

P0 Toss

A specified placement does not occur with Toss. The object is released during the preceding move (Action distance
parameter) without placing motions or a pause to point the object towards the target. The time for the release motion
to let go of the object is included in the G parameter.

Examples:
• Toss a part in tote bin.
• Toss balled up paper in trash can.

P1 Lay Aside

The object is simply placed in an approximate location with no apparent aligning or adjusting motions. This placement
requires low control by the mental, visual or muscular senses.

Examples:
• Lay aside a tool aside over using.
• Put a pencil on a desk. Lay a manual on a table.

P1 Loose fit
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The object is placed in a more specific location than that described by the lay aside parameter, but tolerances are such
that only a very modest amount of mental, visual or muscular control is necessary to place it. The clearance between the
engaging parts is loose enough so that one adjustment, without the application of pressure is required to place the
object.

Examples:
• Put a washer on a bolt
• Replace a telephone receiver on the hook
• Put a coat hanger on a rack
• Put a dull pencil into a sharpener

P1 Loose fit

The use of stops at a workplace can make it possible for an operator to place in object to a precise location with little or
no hesitation. For this reason, laying object against stops can be considered a Loose Fit Placement (P1).

Example: Put part in drill jig. (If adjustments are made, the placement will be a P3 in most situations)

P3 Loose Fit Blind or Obstructed

Conditions are similar to those encountered by the Gain Control parameter with the same title. What would normally
be P1, Loose fit is now hidden or obstructed. In such a situation, the operator must feel around or work around for
placement location before the placement can occur.

Example:
• Place a washer on a hidden stud (blind).
• Work around a steering wheel to place part in dashboard (obstructed).

P3 Adjustments

Adjustments are defined as the corrective actions occurring at the point of placement caused by difficulty in handling
the object, closeness of fit, lack of symmetry of the engaging parts or awkward working conditions. These adjustments
are recognized as obvious efforts, hesitations or correcting motions at the point of placement to align, orient andlor
engage the object. —

Examples:
• Place a key in a lock
• Place a screw on a threaded junction and pick up the threads
• Place three-hole punched paper into binder

P3 Adjustments

This parameter can also be applied to an object being lined up to two different marks following a general move. For P3
to apply, however, these marks must be within 4 inches (10cm) of each other. If there is more than 4 inches (10cm)
between each mark, special eye times are needed which require additional care in the placement (P6).

Examples:
• Place an original on a photocopy machine.
• Adjust a ruler to two points J inches (7.5cm) apart after placing it on drafting paper.
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P3 Light Pressure

Because of close tolerances or the nature of the placement, the application of muscular force is needed to seat the
object even if the initial positioning action could be classified as a Loose fit (P1). This could occur, for example the
snapping action required to seat a socket on a ratchet.

Examples:
• Press a thumbtack into a corkboard.
• Snap a cap onto a marker Secure a CD in a CD case.

P3 Light Pressure

Threaded placements are nearly always a P3, unless they are either blind or obstructed (P6) Or, placed in a hole up to 2
inches (5cm) deep, where the threaded pickup action is not required. In the case of a deep, self-threaded fastener, the
value will be P1.

P3 Double Placement

Two distinct placements occur during the total placing activity.

Examples: Place a bolt through a hole in two parts.

P6 Care or Precision

Extreme care is needed to place an object within a closely defined relationship with another object. The occurrence of
this variant is characterized by the obvious slow motion of the placement due to the high degree of concentration
required for mental, visual and muscular coordination.

Examples:
• Thread a needle.
• Position a soldering iron to a crowded circuit connection.
• Position a full beaker of chemical solution on a lab table.

P6 Heavy Pressure

As a result of very tight tolerances, not the weight of an object alone, a high degree of muscular force is needed to
engage the object. Heavy Pressure can be easily recognized as the regrasping of an object, tensing of the muscles and
preparation of the body prior to the application of the pressure. The use of heavy pressure is not a common activity and
would exert a high level of stress on the worker and should be avoided, if possible.

The tensing of the muscles and the use of both hands needed to place an object often differentiates placement of P6,
Heavy Pressure from P3 Light Pressure.

Examples:
• Position a book in a very tight slot on a bookshelf.

P6 Blind or Obstructed
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Conditions are similar to those encountered by the Gain Control Parameter with the same title. Accessibility to the point
of placement is restricted because an obstacle either prevents the operator from seeing the point of placement or
creates an obstruction to the hand or fingers when attempting to place the object.

If the location is blind, the operator must feel around for the placement location before the object can actually be
placed (normally with adjustments). When an obstruction presents itself, the fingers and or hands must be worked
around the obstacle before placing the object with adjustments.

Examples:
• Position a nut on a hidden bolt (blind)
• Position a spark plug in an engine block after working the hands between the distributor wiring.

P6 Intermediate Moves

Several intermediate moves of the object are required before placing it in a final location. These intermediate moves are
required because of the nature of the object or the conditions surrounding the object prevent direct placement.

With heavy, bulky or difficult to handle objects, this parameter is recognized as a series of placing, shifting of grasps and
moving actions occurring before final placement. The additional handling is needed to overcome the awkward nature of
the object.

Examples:
• Position chairs in a neat row 6y first setting a chair down and then aligning it with several sliding moves.
• Position a large box down on its corner and “walk it” to position.
• Position a splined shaft into a gearbox.

P6 Intermediate Moves

A special case of this variant is encountered when placing one object from a handful of different objects from the palm
of the hand. Before actually placing the objects, several finger and hand movements are required to select and shift one
of the objects from the palm to the finger tips. Several finger motions (intermediate moves) are needed to shift the
object up to the fingertips before placement can occur.

Examples:
• From a handful of change, use the thumb to push a one rupee coin and place it in a weighing machining.
• Using the thumb select a 1l2inch washer (12mm) from a handful of assorted washers and nuts and position if
on a bolt.

Partial Frequency
Often, one or more parameters within the General Move Sequence Model occur more than once — for example, when
placing several objects from a handful.

This activity is shown in the sequence model by placing the parenthesis around the parameters which are repeated and
writing the number of occurrences after the sequence model in parenthesis.

Example:

Get a handful of Washers and put them onto three bolts located 5 inches (12.5 cm) apart.
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A1 B0 G3 (A1 B0 P1) A0(3) -- (1+3+((1+1)x3)) x 10 -- 100TMU

Frequency
Frequency is the occurrence of the entire sequence occurring more than once.

Example:

Get a handful of Washers and put them onto three bolts located 5 inches (12.5 cm) apart.

AI BO G3 (A1 BO PI) A0 (3) -- (1+3+ ((1+1) x3)) x 10 -- 100TMU

In the above example if the entire sequence occurs twice then the following analysis would apply.

A1 B0 G3 (A1 B0 P1) A0 (3) 2 --- (1+3+ ((1+1) x3)) x2 x10 – 200TMU

Controlled Move Sequence Model

In addition to the A, B, G & P, this sequence model has three distinct parameters i.e. M, X & I

M - Move Controlled

All manually guided movements or actions of objects over a controlled path (using fingers, hands or feet) two categories:
Push l Pull l Turn & Cranks

M1 One Stage <= 12 inches

The object is moved along a controlled path by movement of the fingers, hands or feet not exceeding 12 inches (30cm)

Examples:
• Holding Scanner, slide over barcode package
• Engage the lead on a copying machine with a short hand lever
• Press a pedal with the foot
• Open a hinged lid on small loo/box
• Push an empty box 10inches (25cm) across a workbench.

M1 Button / Knob / Switch

A device is actuated by a short pressing, moving or rotating action of the fingers, hands, wrist or feet.

Examples:
• Press a telephone hold button.
• Flip a wall light switch
• Turn a door Knob
• Push a kick plate with the foot to close a clamping device
• Push a button to raise or lower shipping door

M3 One stage > 12 inches

The object is moved along a controlled path by movement of the hands, arms or feet greater than 12 inches (30cm). The
maximum displacement covered by this parameter occurs with the extension of the arm plus body assistance.
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Examples:
• Push a carton across conveyor rollers.
• Close a cabinet door
• Open a file drawer full length
• Pull out a long oil dipstick from an engine block
• Move object in front of scanner af grocery store checkout

M3 Resistance
Conditions surrounding the object or device require that resistance be overcome during the controlled move. This
parameter variant covers the muscular force needed to move the object with resistance.
Examples:
Engage an emergency brake on an automobile
Push a heavy box across a table

M3 Seat or Unseat
Conditions surrounding the object or device require that the resistance be overcome prior to or following the controlled
move. This parameter variant covers the application of muscular force with little or no movement to "seat" or “Unseat"
an object or, if necessary, the short manual actions employed to latch or unlatch the object
Examples:
 Twist a radiator cap securely.
 Snap the tab open on a small toolbox.
 Unsnap the rings open in a three-ring binder

M3 High Control

Care is needed to maintain or establish a specific orientation of the object during the controlled move. Characterized by
high degree of visual concentration, this parameter variant is sometimes recognized by noticeably slower movements to
keep within tolerance requirements to prevent injury or damage.

The successful performance of this controlled move demands that eye contact be made with the object and its
surroundings during the move. This parameter may be followed by an Align value as in case when
turning a safe dial to a specific number and aligning it to the tick mark.

Example:
 Turn a number on a combination lock to a specified number.
 With a hand held scanner, carefully scan a page of text

M3 Two Stages <= 24 Inches 60cm Total

An object is displaced in two directions or increments a distance not exceeding a total 24 inches (60 cm) for both stages
without relinquishing control. If the movement is continuous and without an abrupt change in direction it is not a two
stage move.

Example:
 Pull packing paper and tear
 Open and subsequently close a cabinet door
 Raise and lower a cover of a photocopier
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M6 Two Stages > 24 Inches 60cm Total

An object is displaced in two directions or increments a distance exceeding a total 24 inches (60 cm) for both stages
without relinquishing control. If the movement is continuous and without and without an abrupt change in direction it is
not a two stage move.

Example: Open and subsequently close a cupboard 22Inches each way

M6 One or Two Stage

Object is moved along a controlled path requiring one or two steps to complete the move. The time to start the move of
the object is included in the index value. If resistance occurs during the move, the number of steps taken will increase
allowing extra time to overcome resistance.

Example: Push a box long a conveyor while taking two steps

M10 Three to four stages

An object is displaced in three to four directions or increments without relinquishing control. If the movement is
continuous and without an abrupt change of direction it is not a multiple-stage move.

Example: Shift from first to reverse with a manual gear shift lever.

Crank

This category of Move Controlled refers to the manual actions employed to rotate such objects as cranks, hand wheels
and reels. This type of action is used when there are no obstructions in the circular path.

These cranking actions are performed by moving the fingers, hand wrist and/or forearm in a circular path more than half
a revolution as shown in figure.

For less than half revolution “Push/Pull/Turn" must be considered

X - Process Time

 The portion of work controlled by electronic or mechanical devices or machines, not by manual actions
 Used for machine controlled activities having a short duration

I —Alignment

The alignment (I) parameter applies only when an alignment of an object follows a move controlled.

Should the object be moved freely without restrictions and then be "aligned to two points” The general move Placement
(P) parameter is the appropriate selection.

The alignment (I) of an object occurs after the object is moved over a controlled path (M) and accounts for the time to
orient situate the object.
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This is similar to the General Move where the Placement (P) of an object occurs after the spatial displacement of an
object (A) and accounts for the time to orient / position the object.

Are you able to see the relation?

M: I as A: P

I1 Align to 1 Point

The object is aligned to one point. This is used when the demand for precise alignment is modest and can be satisfied
with a single correcting action.

This is similar to P1 except that I1 occurs following an M. Example:

 Align one corner to another corner on paper prior to folding it.

 Locate a mark on a wood block to a handsaw blade prior to cutting.

I3 Align to 2 Points <= 4 inches 10cm

The object is aligned to two points less than or equal to 4 inches (10cm) apart following a Move Controlled.

Example: A straight edge is aligned to two marks located 3 inches (7.5cm) apart, as shown in figure. Both points are
within area of normal vision.

Area of Normal Vision

The average area covered by the eye is described by a circle 4 inches (10cm) in diameter at a normal reading distance of
about 16cms(40cm) from the eyes. If one of the two points lie outside this area, two separate alignments are required,
owing to the inability of the eyes to focus at both points simultaneously.

I16 Precision

The object is aligned to several points with extreme care of precision following a controlled move.

Example: Align a sheet metal template of several points over blank piece.

13 To Work Piece (Machining Operations)

The machining tool is alignment to the work piece prior to making a cut. Following many cranking actions (M) to locate
the tool near the cutting position, the crank or the hand wheel is manipulated so that the cutting edge of the tool just
touches the work piece.

I6 to Scale Mark (Machining Operations)

The machining tool is aligned to scale mark prior to making a cut. Following any cranking actions to locate the tool near
the cutting position, several taps on the first of the hand (holding the hand wheel) using the other hand may be
observed to line up the cutting edge of the tool with the scale mark.
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I10 to Indicator Dial (Machining Operations)

The machining tool is aligned to the correct indicator dial setting prior to making a cut. Following any cranking actions
(M) to locate the tool near the cutting position, the machine operator must visually locate the indicator dial, read the
indicator setting and carefully adjust the tool to the correct setting by tapping the hand that holds the hand wheel
several times with the other hand.

I —Alignment (Non-Typical Objects)

Non Typical Objects which are large, flimsy and sharp or difficult to handle. This is normally seen with press, shear or
cutoff operations. The alignment is normally made to stops, guides or marks.

Tool Use
Tool Use is combination of General Moves and Controlled Moves. It covers the handling
and use of tools

 Get Tool
 Put Tool
 Tool Action
 Aside Tool
 Return

Examples of Tool Use activities:

 Secure a cap on a bolt with 5 finger spans

 Fasten a screw with a screwdriver 8 wrist turns
 Loosen a nut with a wrench using 3 wrist strokes.
 Cut open a box with a knife.
 Read 3 words from purchase order.
 Wipe a surface with a cloth.

F/L-Fasten or Loosen

Includes manually or mechanically assembling or disassembling one object to or from another using the fingers, hand or
a hand tool

 Finger Actions
 Wrist Actions
 Arm Actions
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C- Cut

Manual actions employed to separate, divide or remove part of an object using a sharp-edged hand tool

 Pliers
 Scissors
 Knife

S - Surface Treat

Activities aimed at cleaning material or particles from or applying a substance, coating or finish to the surface of an
object

 Air-clean
 Brush-clean
 Wipe

M — Measure

Actions employed to determine a certain physical characteristic of an object by comparison with a standard measuring
device.

Identify Measurement Device-

 Profile Gauge
 Fixed Scale
 Caliper
 Feeler Gauge

R — Record

Manual actions performed with a writing instrument or marking tool for the purpose of recording information.

 Write
 Mark

T— Think

Refers to the use of sensory mental processes, particularly those involving visual perception

 lnspect
 Read
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Major Contributors to Work Measurement Study
Frederick Winslow Taylor

(March 20, 1856 — March 21, 1915) was an American mechanical engineer who sought to improve
industrial efficiency. He is regarded as the father of scientific management and was one of the first
management consultants. Taylor was one of the intellectual leaders of the Efficiency Movement and his
ideas, broadly conceived, were highly influential in the Progressive Era.

Frank Bunker Gilbreth, Sr.

(July 7, 1868 - June 14, 1924) was an early advocate of scientific management and a pioneer of
motion study.

Lillian Moller Gilbreth

(May 24, 1878 — January 2, 1972) was an American psychologist and industrial engineer. She and her husband Frank
Gilbreth, Sr. were efficiency experts who contributed to the study of industrial engineering in fields such as
motion study and human factors.

The basic MTM data was developed by HB Maynard, JL Schwab and GJ Stegemerten in the 1940s.
This data and the application rules for the MTM system were refined, extended, defined,
industrially tested and documented as a result of further work in later years. In 1948, the trio
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 industrialized countries.

Kjell Zandin, creator of the MOST® Work Measurement System. Zandin was an owner and director of H.B. Maynard and
Co., which is now a part of Accenture, for more than 20 years, and he had more than 35 years of industrial engineering
consulting experience. In addition to his work developing MOST, he was the editor of the fifth edition of
Maynard's Industrial Engineering Handbook, published in 2001.