Standard Work is the most efficient combination of man, machine, and material. The three elements of standard work are 1) takt time work sequence, and 3) standard work-in-process. Performing standard work allows for a clear and visible 'standard' operation. Deviation from standard work indicates an abnormality, which is then an opportunity for improvement.

Standard Work is a tool that defines the interaction of people and their environment when processing a product or service. It details the motion of the operator and the sequence of action. It provides a routine for consistency of an operation and a basis for improvement. It details the best process we currently know and understand. Tomorrow it should be better, (continuous improvement), and the standard work should be revised to incorporate the improvement. There can be no improvement without a basis or standard. Standard Work has three central elements; TAKT time, Standard Work Sequence, and Standard Work in Process. Standard work (as a tool) establishes a routine/habit/pattern for repetitive tasks, makes managing (scheduling, resource allocation) easier, establishes the relationship between person and environment, provides a basis for improvement by defining the normal and highlighting the abnormal, and it prohibits backsliding.

Pre-determined sequence of tasks for the operator to complete within takt time.