This project seeks to improve the education of undergraduate industrial engineers in the effective management of productivity. Productivity management encompasses the classical industrial engineering (IE) activities of work measurement, motion study, methods improvement and work simplification, coupled with the consideration of human factors. As with most technical fields, improvement in the practice of these IE basics can result from technological advances in the equipment used. No longer is it sufficient to arm an IE with paper, pencil, and a stopwatch. This project offers the IE student an opportunity to gain experience with an array of today's sophisticated tools, including automated data collection and analysis systems, computer interfaces, and videotape technology. These tools enhance the IE's own productivity. This experience combined with the underlying theory of productivity management better prepares the student to effectively manage productivity in the workplace. The award is being matched by an equal amount from the principal investigator's institution.
