These records, in the form in which they are to be used by the man who is to perform the task, are, for the benefit of that man, incorporated in what is known as the instruction card.
Definition of the Instruction Card. — The instruction card is a set of directions for the man, telling Page 154 him what he is to do, how he is to do it, how long it should take him to do it, and what he will receive for doing it, and giving him an opportunity to call for, and obtain, assistance the instant that he finds he cannot do it, and to report back to the managers as to how he has succeeded in the performance.
The Instruction Card has been called "a self-producer of a predetermined product."
Comparative Definition of Instruction Cards, Under Scientific Management. — There are three types of Instruction Cards, which may be described as follows:
Type One: — Largely geographical, telling
- Where to Work.
- From Whom to Take Orders.
- What to Do.
Type Two: — Typical engineer's specification, — telling
- Results desired.
- Qualities of Products.
Type Three: — A list of elementary, step-by-step instructions, subdivided into their motions, with time allowed for each timable element, preferably for each motion, and a division between
- Getting ready.
- Making or constructing.