Efficiency Methods
An Introduction to Scientific Management

CHAPTER XI STANDARDIZATION OF METHODS (Continued) C. The Schedule Time or Standard Task The final product of all these careful studies is the fixing of a proper time for an operation, when it is performed by a standard method under standard conditions. In some works this time is spoken of as schedule time simply; but the expression “ stan- dard task ” has been more common. Dr. Taylor used the word “ task,” though he deprecated the unfortunate connection with “ slave-driving ” given by adopting the word, which suggests some objec- tionable pressure on the worker.1 Mr. Gantt has made the word entirely his own by calling his method of remuneration the “ Task and Bonus System.” Dr. Taylor suggested, and the point is urged more strongly by Mrs. Gilbreth in her “ Psychology of Management,” that the general mental effect of having a definite amount of work to do in a certain time is helpfully stimulating ; and that people often prefer working towards a definite goal. The Psychological Review for 1906 contains an interesting 1 " Principles of Scientific Management,” p. 120. 104