Standard Work Combination Sheet
A structured evaluation matrix for auditing, updating, and sustaining the Standard Work Combination Sheet (SWCS). Use this form to validate cycle time observations, operator walk patterns, machine time alignment, and cross-training readiness against takt time requirements.
The Standard Work Combination Sheet (SWCS) is the foundational document that defines the precise sequence of manual, machine, and walking elements required to complete one cycle of work at takt time. This audit form provides a repeatable scoring framework to evaluate the accuracy, completeness, and sustainability of each SWCS on the production floor. Regular audits uncover gaps between documented standard work and actual practice, enabling timely countermeasures and kaizen. Use this matrix to drive process discipline, reduce variability, and build a robust cross-training pipeline.
- Current SWCS posted at the work cell must be the most recent approved version (revision date visible).
- Stopwatch or time-study device available for cycle time verification; data recorded in seconds.
- Operator must be trained and proficient in the current standard work sequence before observation.
- Audit should be conducted during normal production — not during a pilot or trial run.
Audit / Evaluation Matrix
| Criteria / Metric | Evaluation Question / Standard | Score (1–5) | Notes / Observations |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Takt Time Alignment | Is the total cycle time (manual + machine + walk) ≤ takt time? Record actual vs. target. | [ ] | _________________ |
| 2. Element Sequence | Are all work elements listed in the correct chronological order with clear start/end points? | [ ] | _________________ |
| 3. Time Accuracy | Are manual, machine, and walk times recorded within ±10% of three stopwatch observations? | [ ] | _________________ |
| 4. Walk Pattern | Does the documented walk path match the actual operator movement (steps, distance, layout)? | [ ] | _________________ |
| 5. Machine Time (Auto) | Is automatic machine processing time clearly separated from manual work? Are load/unload steps captured? | [ ] | _________________ |
| 6. Quality Checks | Are in-process quality inspection points (visual, gauge, test) embedded in the sequence? | [ ] | _________________ |
| 7. Safety & Ergonomics | Does the SWCS include required PPE, ergonomic lift limits, or lockout/tagout steps? | [ ] | _________________ |
| 8. Cross-Training Ready | Can a trained operator from another cell follow this SWCS without verbal instruction? | [ ] | _________________ |
| 9. Visual Management | Is the SWCS posted at eye level, legible, and protected from shop-floor contamination? | [ ] | _________________ |
| 10. Revision Control | Is the revision date, document ID, and approval signature present on the sheet? | [ ] | _________________ |
Scoring: 5 = Fully compliant & sustained | 3 = Partially compliant, minor gap | 1 = Non-compliant, immediate action required.
Action Items & Follow-Up Plan
| Date | Gap Identified | Countermeasure / Action | Owner | Target Date |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ___/___/_____ | _______________________________ | _______________________________ | _______ | ___/___/_____ |
| ___/___/_____ | _______________________________ | _______________________________ | _______ | ___/___/_____ |
| ___/___/_____ | _______________________________ | _______________________________ | _______ | ___/___/_____ |
| ___/___/_____ | _______________________________ | _______________________________ | _______ | ___/___/_____ |
By signing below, the auditor, lean champion, or area supervisor verifies that all assessments have been completed accurately, actual cycle times have been validated, and improvement plans have been communicated to the cell team.