Work cycle
Work cycle is work that repeats at the end of the current cycle and continues with a regular frequency. In other words, when the current cycle is complete, the next cycle is started, and the sequence continues to repeat. A normal work period, such as a shift, will contain one or more work cycles. An example of a single cycle might be a truck driver who makes a single round trip each 8-hour shift.
Worker is building or producing a product multiple times over a normal work period shift. The worker is expected to produce many parts in the course of the work period. The cycle is repeated over and over until vompletion of the work or some disruption of the work cycle occurs. This disruption could be a problem, a scheduled lunchtime, the end of the work period, etc. Basically, the worker continues to repeat the work cycle as long as required, often for the entire shift[1].
The length of the work cycle
Some utilities categorize activities as long-cycle work (developing and maintaining) and short-cycle work (operating):
- Long-cycle: typically planned work, often with long dyrations (even in the case of a quick patrol inspection, which are usually bundled into several days or weeks of work)
- Short-cycle: typically unplanned work, often with short durations
Commercial work management systems tended to focus on a specific type of work. They were designed to handle either short-cycle crews or long-cycle work[2] .
Social construction of the social work cycle
On this comprehensive cycle we place:
- The client-worker-agency cycle
- The political-social-ideological cycle
- The agency-profession cycle.
The first of the three deals with the face-to-face encounters between the client and the social worker. The second contains broader societal debates where social problems are constructed. The third cycle consists of professional conversations dealing with knowledge in social work. These cycles interact continuously with each other; their influence on each other is multidirectional. Our picture of social work is fuller if we look at it on all three cycles. However, it is also possible to concentrate on one cycle alone, in which case the other two will act as framing contexts[3].
Work-rest cycle
The methods of measurement generally used to evaluate the effects of different work-rest cycles may be classified into two basic types:
- The continuous-work method
- The interpolated-task method
In the former, some measure of performance is continuously obtained while the operator works without interruption. This method can be used only if a continuous or repetitive task is employed, and it generally demands that work be homogeneous and that frequentt measures of performance be permissible. Use of this method has generally resulted in the demonstration of productivity trends.
In the interpolated-task method a standard task or test is introduced before, during or after the work period. This method is used most frequently when the work does not permit continuous observation and measurement: however, the possible inferences relative to performance efficiency are greatly dependent upon the nature of the interpolated task used. In addition, with this method the interpolated task itself may produce an effect through its novelty or as a break in the routine of work. Daily and weekly trends in performance have been found less consistently with this method than with the other[4].
Examples of Work cycle
- Manufacturing Process: Manufacturing processes typically involve multiple work cycles. For example, a factory may use a sequence of machines to complete a product, with each machine completing one work cycle before the product moves to the next station.
- Software Development: Software development is also often organized into work cycles. For instance, a software development cycle typically involves an analysis phase, design phase, implementation phase, and testing phase, with each phase requiring multiple iterations before the product is ready for launch.
- Restaurant Operations: Restaurant operations often involve multiple work cycles. For example, the prep cycle involves food preparation and stocking of ingredients, the service cycle involves taking orders, preparing meals, and serving customers, and the cleanup cycle involves cleaning the dining area and kitchen.
- Transportation: Transportation can also be organized into work cycles. For example, a truck driver might make a regular route, with each round trip representing one work cycle. Similarly, a public transit system might have a regular schedule of buses or trains, with each run completing one work cycle.
Advantages of Work cycle
A work cycle has several advantages. Firstly, it allows for an efficient and organized approach to work and helps to maintain high productivity. Secondly, it can help to reduce stress levels by providing an organized and predictable environment, which can help to reduce fatigue and burnout. Thirdly, it can help to reduce costs, as it eliminates the need to create new processes and procedures every time a task is performed. Lastly, it encourages teamwork and collaboration, as it provides a structure for everyone to work together in an efficient manner.
Limitations of Work cycle
Work cycles have several limitations that can negatively impact productivity and efficiency. These include:
- Lack of flexibility: Workcycles are usually set in advance and cannot be adjusted to address changing needs or priorities. This can lead to employees feeling that their work is monotonous and repetitive, leading to lower motivation and engagement.
- Poor resource management: Workcycles can create an inefficient use of resources, as tasks may not always be completed in the most effective order. This can lead to wasted time and effort.
- Wasted time: If the workcycle is not optimized, it can lead to wasted time, as tasks may be repeated unnecessarily. This can reduce efficiency and productivity.
- Lack of innovation: Workcycles can be rigid and inflexible, which can lead to a lack of innovation and creativity. This can hinder the development of new ideas and processes.
The work cycle is an important concept for businesses to understand in order to maximize efficiency and productivity. Other approaches related to work cycles include:
- Just-in-Time (JIT) Manufacturing - This approach is based on the idea of producing only what is needed, when it is needed, and in the exact quantity needed in order to reduce waste.
- Lean Production - This approach is focused on reducing waste and increasing efficiency by using fewer resources and reducing the time it takes to complete tasks.
- Kaizen - This approach is focused on continual improvement and making small changes in processes.
In summary, work cycles are an important concept to understand when looking to improve efficiency, productivity, and reduce waste. Various approaches can be used to help achieve these goals, such as Just-in-Time Manufacturing, Lean Production, and Kaizen.
Footnotes
| Work cycle — recommended articles |
| Kaizen costing — Continuous process — 5S method — Muda mura muri — Work simplification — Line balancing — Six sigma — World class manufacturing — Toyota production system |
References
- Borlase S., (2017). Smart Grids: Advanced Technologies and Solutions "Taylor & Francis Group"
- Jokinen A., (2018). Constructing Social Work Practices "Ashgate Publishing"
- Martin T.D., Bell J.T., (2016). New Horizons in Standardized Work "Taylor & Francis Group"
- Ray J.T., Martin O.E., Alluisi E.A., (1960). Human Performance as a Function of the Work-rest Cycle "National Academy of Sciences"
Author: Natalia Talarek
