Work measurement is a systematic process that has been used since the late 1800s to improve productivity. It involves directly observing work tasks and breaking them into elements to determine standard times. These standards provide benchmarks for tasks and help identify areas for improvement. Work measurement provides data to help with staffing needs, process design, cost analysis, and measuring performance against goals. The success of work measurement relies on accurately capturing all task times, applying appropriate allowances, and using the standards to drive continuous improvement.