Work system design

Participants join this course to learn how to design and improve work systems that balance productivity, efficiency, safety, and human well-being. The course equips learners with practical and analytical tools to study work methods, measure performance, and develop optimized workflows that reduce waste, fatigue, and operational inefficiencies.

The program is especially valuable for students and professionals interested in industrial engineering, production management, ergonomics, and operations. Participants gain the ability to analyze real-world work environments, apply ergonomic principles, and design jobs and workplaces that enhance both employee comfort and organizational performance.

By joining this course, learners strengthen their problem-solving and decision-making skills and gain industry-relevant knowledge applicable to manufacturing and service sectors. The course also provides a strong foundation for advanced studies and professional roles in productivity improvement, lean systems, and human-centered system design.

Work System Design is a fundamental course in industrial and production engineering that focuses on the systematic design, analysis, and improvement of work systems to achieve high productivity, efficiency, safety, and worker well-being. The course integrates principles of ergonomics, work study, human factors, and operations management to develop optimized methods for performing tasks in manufacturing and service environments.

The course begins with an introduction to work systems and their components, including workers, machines, materials, methods, and the working environment. It emphasizes the importance of understanding human capabilities and limitations in designing effective work systems. Concepts such as anthropometry, biomechanics, physiological factors, and workplace ergonomics are covered to ensure safe, comfortable, and efficient job design.

Key topics include method study, work measurement, time study, standard time determination, and productivity analysis. Students learn to analyze existing work methods, eliminate unnecessary motions, and develop improved processes using tools such as process charts, motion study, and principles of motion economy. The course also addresses job design, work layout planning, and material handling systems to enhance workflow and reduce fatigue and delays.

In addition, Work System Design covers workplace safety, environmental factors, and quality of work life, highlighting their impact on employee performance and organizational effectiveness. Modern approaches such as lean manufacturing, work system optimization, and the use of digital tools for work analysis are introduced to align the course with current industrial practices.

By the end of the course, learners gain the skills required to design and evaluate efficient, safe, and human-centered work systems. The knowledge acquired is highly relevant for careers in manufacturing, operations management, ergonomics, industrial engineering, and productivity improvement initiatives.

source : NPTEL [youtube]

• introduction to work system design

• flow process charts

• operation process charts

• human aspects of work study

• case study on productivity

• productivity measures