Method engineering is an area of industrial/production engineering that focuses on the optimization of production and work processes in a company. It aims to improve the efficiency, productivity, and quality of processes and to minimize waste of resources, time, and effort.

Method engineering focuses specifically on the integration of workers into a process. The fundamental objective of method engineering is to reduce costs and optimize the reliability of processes through the analysis of activity / task performance. The function can also be called “corporate reengineering,” because it analyzes and instigates improvements in an established work practice.

The main objective of method engineering is to improve the way work is carried out, seeking to reduce costs, increase the quality of products or services, reduce production times and improve working conditions. It seeks to develop efficient and safe working methods.

The role of the Methods Engineer is to establish where people would be best positioned within a process to complete an activity as effectively as possible.

One of the main steps of method engineering is the detailed analysis of existing processes. This involves collecting information about how the work is performed, from the entry of raw materials to the delivery of the final product. Reducing production cycle times is a goal in method engineering, allowing companies to respond more quickly to market demands.

Method engineering seeks to standardize processes whenever possible. Standardization helps ensure the consistency and quality of the product or service. It also seeks to eliminate waste of resources, such as time, materials, and labor. It sees activities that do not add value to the product or service as waste. Method engineering can include efforts to reduce energy consumption, making processes more sustainable.

Its purview also includes the health and safety of workers to ensure that working methods are ergonomically correct and safe.

Method engineering is a continuous process. After implementing improvements, method engineers monitor the results and make additional adjustments if necessary. The optimization of methods often leads to an improvement in the quality of products or services, reducing defects and rework.

Method engineers use various techniques, such as flow diagrams, time and movement analysis, layout studies, and cost analysis, to perform their analyses and implement improvements.

The training of employees is another assignment of the method engineer. The team is trained in the new methods and procedures, and all the necessary documentation is updated to reflect the changes.

In short, method engineering is a fundamental discipline for the improvement of production and work processes in an organization. It seeks to improve efficiency, quality and safety, in addition to reducing costs and waste. By analyzing, standardizing, and optimizing methods, companies can become more competitive and effective in their operations.