REFA Application in Measurement of Employee Efficiency by Time Study: The Case in Public Institution

Abstract

Purpose – Employee productivity is very crucial especially in areas where labor is concentrated, such as the service sector. Considering public enterprises as a service sector, measuring the productivity of employees and taking initiatives to increase their productivity is an issue that needs to be examined. In this context, in this study, it is aimed to reply questions such as whether it will be possible to reveal employee productivity what problems may arise and what suggestions can be made in the central unit of a public institution. Design /methodology /approach – In the study, the measurement of processing times was carried out by using the time study technique of REFA (Reichsausschuss Für Arbeitszetermittlung), which was developed by the German-based State Working Times Determination Commission. In this way, in order to determine the productivity of the employees in the public sector, the necessity of measuring the jobs has been acted upon. The necessary research data for this was obtained by making observations for a period of one month in the central unit of a public institution where 200 employees work. Then, by using these data, it was focused on the transactions carried out by employees working on the counter, which was observed to reach the standard processing time. Findings – By taking the marriage surname change process as an example in the central unit of a public institution, it has been concluded that the repetitive transactions conducted by the employees working in the on the counter can be measured. In addition, as a result of the observations, it has been determined that there is no obstacle to the measurement of works and transactions that include less reasoning and standard movements on the file and computer with this method, if the working conditions and methods are improved. Discussion – A Live and Alert system proposal has been introduced for the transactions performed. The approach followed in the study can contribute to increasing employee productivity by being adopted in units and /or other public institutions and organizations where similar transactions are made.