Time and motion studies are methods used to determine the optimal time it takes to complete tasks. They were developed by Frederick Taylor and the Gilbreths to establish fair work standards and eliminate unnecessary motions. While originally used in manufacturing, today time and motion studies can be applied to performance evaluations, planning, problem solving, and cost analysis in various organizations. The objective is to study jobs and determine standard times through observation, task breakdown, and time recording. Allowance factors are added to standard times to account for contingencies. However, studies may not always accurately capture real work conditions due to observer or worker issues.