Analysis of Data
The analysis process starts by organizing the data and extracting only the
data most relevant to improving productivity. It is strongly advisable that
the function of individual workers in a crew and their effectiveness in performing
these functions be closely examined. Superintendents, foremen,
craftspersons, and inspectors should be interviewed at convenient times during
videotaping of an activity to discuss the logic and details of the operation
investigated. These individuals are an excellent source of innovative ideas
because of their previous experience and their intimate familiarity with the
details of their activities.
The process of organizing the relevant information involves viewing of
the videotapes in the fast-forward mode, which takes about 5 min per tape.
This step is usually repeated two to three times to give better familiarity
with the data recorded. The tape is then rewound and the footage counter
is set to zero. The tape is reviewed at normal speed with frequent override
with the fast-forward mode. In this manner, the observer is given enough
time to note pertinent information, improvement ideas, and cross reference
the footage on the counter. Other functions of the cassette deck such as
double speed, slow motion, pause, and stop action can be used to help the
observer to interpret and document certain conditions and circumstances. The time recorded on the tapes, which is also displayed on the screen, gives more
perspective to the actual sequence of the operation. With the aid of the video
editing controller, one or more video tapes of 10-15 min duration are developed
to combine the most important findings and to reduce the viewing
time. Such tapes are used in brainstorming sessions to address operational
procedures, equipment movement, crew balance, and safety related issues