Final answer:
Productivity signifies the ratio of outputs to inputs and influences economic growth and wages. Firms are willing to pay workers based on their productivity, and work study techniques help identify and alleviate operational bottlenecks to improve efficiency.
Step-by-step explanation:
Introduction to Productivity and Work Study
Productivity is a critical economic indicator that measures the efficiency of production in terms of the ratio between outputs generated and inputs used. It is closely related to the concept of economic growth and wages, as a higher productivity rate usually leads to a more robust economy and better pay for workers. Concerns about productivity often lead organizations to employ work study techniques to identify and address inefficiencies and bottlenecks within their operations.
Link Between Productivity and Wages
Productivity growth influences the average level of wages over time. This is because the compensation for workers is proportionate to the value of the output they can produce. If workers are more productive, as in our hypothetical comparison between Canadian and American breadmakers, they are typically able to command higher wages, as they create more value for their employers.
Improving Productivity Through Work Study
To enhance productivity, one may utilize various work study techniques, such as method study and time study, to systematically investigate and optimize the use of resources. By analyzing the work processes, identifying bottlenecks, and introducing improvements, organizations can achieve economies of scale and enhance their overall efficiency and productivity.