Allowed Time: Total Time to Complete a Job at Standard Performance

Allowed Time refers to the total amount of time allocated for completing a job at standard performance, including allowances for fatigue, rest, personal needs, and contingencies. It is also known as Standard Time.

Allowed Time, also known as Standard Time, refers to the total time allocated for completing a job at standard performance. It encompasses not only the standard time required to perform the task but also additional allowances for fatigue, rest, personal needs, and contingencies.

Key Components and Computation

Allowed Time is computed by considering several components:

• Basic Time (BT): The time taken to complete a task under normal working conditions.
• Allowance Factor (AF): Time added to cover fatigue, rest, personal needs, and other contingencies.

The formula for Allowed Time (AT) is:

$$ AT = BT \times (1 + AF) $$

Types of Allowances

Various types of allowances are considered when determining Allowed Time:

• Fatigue Allowance: Time allotted to recover from physical/mental fatigue.
• Rest Allowance: Short breaks to recharge during a workday.
• Personal Needs Allowance: Time for necessary personal tasks (e.g., restroom breaks).
• Contingency Allowance: Extra time to cover unexpected delays or interruptions.

Special Considerations in Allowed Time

Industry Specific Practices

The required allowances often vary based on the industry and nature of work. For example, heavy industries may require higher fatigue allowances compared to office-based work environments.

Workforce Efficiency

Allowed Time calculations must balance efficiency and worker well-being. Excessively short times may lead to burnout, while overly generous times can reduce productivity.

Examples and Applications

Example Calculation

Consider a packaging task with a Basic Time (BT) of 1 hour. If the Allowance Factor (AF) is 20%, the Allowed Time (AT) can be calculated as follows:

$$ AT = 1 \times (1 + 0.20) = 1.2 \text{ hours} $$

Applicability in Project Management

Allowed Time is critical in project management for planning and scheduling. It ensures tasks are completed within realistic timeframes while acknowledging human limitations.

Historical Context

The concept of Allowed Time has evolved over time, rooting back to the early 20th century alongside developments in productivity and time-and-motion studies by pioneers like Frederick Taylor and Frank Gilbreth.

Comparisons and Related Terms

Related Terms

• Cycle Time: The time taken for one complete cycle of a task or process.
• Takt Time: The rate at which a product needs to be completed to meet customer demand.

Comparison

Cycle Time and Takt Time focus more on production rates, while Allowed Time includes comprehensive allowances ensuring worker sustainability.

FAQs

What is the main purpose of Allowed Time?

Allowed Time ensures tasks are completed efficiently while accommodating necessary breaks and unforeseen contingencies.

How do allowances affect productivity?

Appropriate allowances prevent burnout and sustain long-term productivity, whereas insufficient allowances can lead to worker fatigue and reduced output.

Can Allowed Time vary?

Yes, it varies based on job complexity, conditions, and worker capacity. Industry standards and company policies also influence its determination.

References

• Taylor, F. W. (1911). The Principles of Scientific Management. Dover Publications.
• Gilbreth, F. B., & Gilbreth, L. M. (1917). Applied Motion Study: A Collection of Papers on the Efficient Method to Industrial Preparedness. Sturgis & Walton Company.

Summary

Allowed Time is a pivotal concept in time management and workforce planning, ensuring tasks are completed effectively while providing necessary allowances for human limitations. Its balanced approach maximizes productivity and worker well-being, making it essential in various industries and managerial practices.