The quality of task times: A methods research

IMAG-DLO is faced with large demands for labor data in spite of limited research capacity. Consequently IMAG-DLO is greatly concerned for the efficiency of the methodology used in task time synthesis, with even greater concern for maintaining the quality of the estimates of task times. Much effort has gone into determining the optimum method for collecting, computing, and storing labor data, the so-called task time synthesis. Task time synthesis can be achieved by four different procedures. These are, in order of decreasing accuracy, Predetermined time systems, Time study, Time registration, and Time estimation. These procedures are illustrated by a schematic overview and described. The applicability of the four procedures differs in horticulture depending on the research goals. The goals of labor management research focus on the evaluation of new developments in practice. Predetermined time systems are very time consuming and less suitable for the variable circumstances in horticulture. Time studies are most recommended as they appear to have the best price/quality relation for task time synthesis. Time registration delivers more indicative than normative task times, and Time estimation is very inaccurate and only to be applied when no other procedure is possible. Finally a protocol for this new direction in labor management research is described