The basic objective of MTM is to optimize methods as well as to set standards.

Methods time measurement

Methods time measurement (MTM) is a procedure that analyzes any manual operation or method into the basic motions required to perform it and assigns to each motion a predetermined time standard which is based on the nature of the motion and the conditions under which it was made.

• The basic objective of MTM is to optimize methods as well as to set standards.
• It offers the great advantage of making it possible to plan and develop accurate methods before production starts, eliminating the need for changes in methods in the middle of the production run.
• The MTM system allows the establishment of engineered time standards without the use of a stopwatch, and subsequent performance rating of the operator.
• Operator performance rating, as used in a time study, can vary significantly