Why would the elemental standard data approach be used instead of a work sampling study when ...

If a plant requires thousands of work standards, the time and cost required for the time study method may be prohibitive. When a high degree of similarity exists in the work elements of certain jobs, analysts often use elemental standard data to derive standards for various jobs. In addition to reducing the number of time studies or informed opinions needed, the elemental standard data approach can help managers develop standards for new work before production begins. This feature is helpful in product costing, pricing, and production planning.