Work design and motion study involve analyzing tasks and worker motions to improve efficiency. Frank Gilbreth developed the concept of "therbligs", which are the basic building blocks of manual work. The 17 therbligs include motions like reach, grasp, move, and release. Effective principles for work design include minimizing unnecessary motions, arranging tools and materials logically, using equipment to reduce physical strain, and incorporating ergonomic factors like adequate lighting.