Which measurement is primarily used to assess the efficiency of a process step?

To assess the efficiency of a process step, Cycle Time is the most appropriate measurement. Cycle Time reflects the total time taken to complete one cycle of a process, from the beginning to the end of that specific step. It includes both the active working time and any waiting time inherent in the process. By analyzing Cycle Time, organizations can identify bottlenecks, delays, and opportunities for improvement, which directly contribute to enhancing efficiency.

Standard Time represents the time that is expected for a process step under normal conditions, but it does not account for variations or inefficiencies that might occur in actual practice. While Standard Time is useful for setting benchmarks and calculating labor costs, it doesn’t provide a complete picture of efficiency like Cycle Time does.

Machine Time deals specifically with the duration that a machine is actively working on a task but does not consider other aspects of the process, such as delays or idle time.

Capacity refers to the maximum amount of work that a process can handle in a given timeframe. While understanding capacity is important, it does not measure how efficiently the current processes are functioning.

Therefore, when it comes to measuring efficiency, Cycle Time is the most informative metric.