What are MTM tools?

MTM is an acronym standing for Methods-Time Measurement,

i.e. a measurement of a particular method’s time. This approach is rooted in the assumption that the time required to perform specific work depends on the method selected to perform the tasks involved.

In short:

The selected method determines the time required.

The MTM procedures break down work processes into basic motions, necessary to perform the job. Each basic motion has a pre-determined time (time standard) attached to it; that time is determined with consideration given to the external modifying factors. The time standards may then be used in defining a work method by means of either statistical or analytical tools. The factors affecting each basic motion provide a springboard for designing the work methods and processes, up to the construct level.
MTM uses a detailed analysis of a job to determine the time required, method and quality of job performance, thus arriving at a full picture of the performance method, including a specification of value-adding activities, bottlenecks and directions for optimization. An analysis of the planning process allows a precise definition of each area’s potential. MTM offers an insight into and realisation of the design potential along the entire value chain. The standards worked out in the process of MTM analysis are the output of our engineers’ work on the optimum performance methods for each case, hence MTM can be applied both at manufacturing or logistics companies and at repair shops or administrative units. The service sector also relies on MTM. Be it the back office of a financial service provider or the operations of a cleaning service company, MTM provides the basis for implementing a competitive work system. At present, MTM is the most popular system worldwide for pre-determined time standards (basic motions), used by the global players as a uniform platform for planning and performance measurement. A combination of MTM and value stream mapping ensures optimization of workflows from the very beginning of the production cycle to replace the more costly process of gradual optimization.

The MTM tools enable the best methods of performance be determined, in order to maximize productivity through streamlining or elimination of any basic motions which carry no added value.
Using MTM tools for time management facilitates the creation of transparent and explicit time standards of top quality. Establishing extended, multi-layered time structures also offers the option of applying them to even the most complex production processes, where measuring time by means of classic techniques, such as time study, presents a challenge.

The first MTM tools date back to the first half of the 20th century and on the basis of continuously built up practices and experience have been evolving for several dozen years to accommodate for the worldwide trends and needs of workflow development of various industries. Nowadays, MTM tools are applied for nearly all business processes (various types of production and technology, logistics, production support, administration, services), which enables a complex approach to the problems of optimum business management. This was the basis for the creation of complex production systems (commonly referred to as GPS), in cooperation with MTM practitioners.

The MTM associations have been continuously adjusting their tools to meet the expectations of businesses. And the expectations have kept growing due to the ever-increasing levels of business competition and innovation. This stimulated the development of tools for process optimization already at the stage of process concept, product development or business planning. To this end, a three-step planning concept was worked out to facilitate identification of process optimization possibilities even before the process has been put in operation.
Applying the MTM tools translates into better utilization of resources, cost management, improved efficiency and productivity. MTM has a positive impact on business performance and development!!!

MTM tools make an ideal supplement and complement for instance to:

–    Lean Thinking,

–    Six Sigma,

–    Theory of Constraints

–    Kaizen, TPM, SMED…