Efficiency Methods
An Introduction to Scientific Management

/ CHAPTER IX STANDARDIZATION OF METHODS A. Time-Study and Motion-Study The men who represent scientific management have continually to disclaim the erroneous con- ception that there is any single root idea in it beyond that of the application throughout of scientific methods in thought and work. There is, naturally, no simple prescription to attain efficiency; its realization, like that of most ideals, demands the practice of eternal vigilance. At the same time the systematic study of methods of operation is perhaps the greatest innovation in the new management, and is an essential plank in the platform. The Trades Unionists in America, who have recently tried to bring in legislation which shall simply and crudely prohibit time-study in Government works, are no doubt aware that they would actually cripple the work of scientific managers by such a prohibition; though it may be very difficult for them to make out a reasonable, logical case against the mere observa- tion of the details in a man’s work, and the time each detail takes, by a person representing the employer. The chief moral to be drawn at present from this recent development in United States politics is that 82