LILLIAN MOLLER GILBRETH Meaning and
Definition
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Lillian Moller Gilbreth was an American industrial engineer, management consultant, and psychologist. Born in 1878, she made significant contributions to the field of industrial engineering, particularly in the areas of time and motion study, ergonomics, and human factors. Gilbreth was one of the first female engineers to combine her technical skills with a deep understanding of human psychology, making her a pioneer in the field of applied psychology.
Gilbreth's work focused on improving efficiency and productivity in the workplace by analyzing work processes and finding ways to eliminate unnecessary motions. She developed various techniques and tools to increase work efficiency and reduce worker fatigue, including the use of time-lapse photography to study and improve work methods. This innovative approach revolutionized industrial management and had a profound impact on the design of workspaces and equipment.
Gilbreth's contributions extended beyond her work in industrial engineering. She was passionate about improving the quality of life for working mothers and large families. As a mother of twelve children herself, she advocated for better household management techniques and developed strategies to streamline household chores and routines.
Overall, Lillian Moller Gilbreth was a trailblazer in the fields of industrial engineering and applied psychology. Her work earned her numerous accolades, including being the first woman elected to the National Academy of Engineering in 1965. Her ideas and methodologies continue to be influential, shaping the way we think about work organization, efficiency, and ergonomics in the modern world.
