Arbeitsvorgangs

Arbeitsvorgang is a term used in production engineering and operations design to denote a single operational step within a work task. It represents the smallest unit of work that transforms inputs, moves materials, or adds value during a process. A complete task is composed of multiple Arbeitsvorgänge arranged in a sequence, sometimes referred to as a process flow or Arbeitsablauf.

Each Arbeitsvorgang has defined inputs (materials, tools, data), outputs (subassemblies, finished product, or information), required resources (labor, machines, energy), and constraints (quality, safety, ergonomics). It is typically described in work instructions or standard operating procedures (SOPs) with method, sequence, duration, and allowable variations.

In practice, managing Arbeitsvorgänge effectively enables process standardization, repeatability, and training. Time-and-motion studies or other work-measurement techniques may be used to determine nominal times and improve efficiency. Analysis can reveal bottlenecks, unnecessary handoffs, or ergonomic risks, guiding improvements such as task redesign, automation, or layout changes.

The concept is central to lean manufacturing, value stream mapping, and production planning. It supports work measurement, capacity planning, and line balancing to minimize idle time and waste. In services, the term can also refer to discrete steps within a service delivery process.

See also: Arbeitsablauf, Arbeitsvorgang, Prozessbeschreibung, SOP, MTM, Wertstromanalyse.