In: Economics
What is job analysis? Explain comprehensively the job analysis method.
Information regarding job analysis can be collected in a variety of ways. One consideration is who should conduct an analysis of the work. Most frequently, the activity is directed by an HR staff member. Others who frequently participate are managers, supervisors and employees doing the jobs, depending on which of the methods discussed next is used. Industrial engineers may perform time- and motion studies for more detailed analyzes.
Another factor is the process which should be used. Common
methods are observations, interviews , questionnaires and
analytical methods which are specialized. Both methods are also
mixed, depending on the situation and the organization. Each of
these approaches will be discussed in some further detail
next.
When using the observation method, the individual performing the
job is observed by a manager, job analyst, or industrial engineer
and takes notes to describe the tasks and duties they perform.
Observation may be either continuous or intermittent.
The use of the observation method is limited because many jobs do not have job duties or complete job cycles complete and easily observed. Observation can also be more useful for repeat jobs and in combination with other approaches. Managers or job analysts using other methods can watch parts of a job being done to gain a general familiarity with the job and the conditions under which it is done. Several findings on many occasions would also help them make more efficient use of some of the other forms of job research.
Another method requires employees to "observe" their own performance by keeping a diary / log of their job duties, noting how often they are performed, and the amount of time required for each duty. While this method often produces valuable information, compiling an comprehensive log can be onerous for employees. This method is also often viewed by workers as producing unnecessary paperwork that detracts from the success of their jobs.
The method of collecting information from the interview requires that a manager or HR specialist visit each job site and talk to the employees performing each job. Most often a structured type of interview is used to collect the information. Often both the employee and the supervisor of the employee have to be interviewed in order to get a complete understanding of the job.
Job Performance Method: In this method, the job analyst actually performs the job in question and thus receives first-hand experience of contextual factors on the job, including physical hazards, social demands, and mental pressures.