Yamazo Studio vs TiCon
Video Time Study vs MTM Comparison
Yamazo Studio and TiCon represent two fundamentally different approaches to time study. Yamazo is a video-based analysis tool, while TiCon is a predetermined time system (PMTS) tool from the German MTM Association. This comparison helps you understand when each approach is appropriate. Comparison reviewed June 2026.
Feature Comparison
| Feature | Yamazo Studio | TiCon |
|---|---|---|
| Approach | Video-based time study | Predetermined time system (PMTS) — no video |
| Time Determination | Measured from actual video recordings | Calculated from MTM motion code tables |
| MTM Methods | Not available | MTM-1, MTM-2, UAS, MEK, SD, HWD |
| Platform | Windows + macOS | Windows (client-server for enterprise) |
| Ergonomic Assessment | WERA ergonomic analysis | EAWS ergonomic assessment integrated |
| Video Analysis | Multi-video unified timeline | Not video-based |
| Yamazumi Charts | Auto-generated from video data | Not a core feature |
| SMED Analysis | Built-in dedicated track type | Not a core feature |
| Line Balancing | Drag-and-drop simulation | Planning-based balancing from MTM data |
| Training Required | Standard software onboarding | MTM certification training required |
| Offline Operation | 100% Offline | Desktop/client-server |
| Data Security | Local-only, no cloud | Standard |
| Pricing | Annual or perpetual license (region-based pricing) | License fee + mandatory MTM training costs |
Yamazo Studio Advantages
- Video-based: analyze actual work as it happens, capturing real-world variability
- No MTM certification required — lower barrier to adoption
- Multi-video merges multiple recordings into one timeline
- Built-in SMED analysis and Yamazumi chart generation
- Cross-platform: runs on both Windows and macOS
- 100% offline with local-only database
- AI work analysis via WorkSense (pilot): on-device pose estimation, REBA ergonomics and irreversible face anonymization — fully offline
- Part of an integrated offline platform — Opsida Airlock LAN project sync (git-like push/pull/lock), Companion browser shop-floor capture and Opsida Flow execution
Alternative Advantages
- Official MTM Association software — the standard for PMTS in Germany
- Supports all major MTM methods: MTM-1, MTM-2, UAS, MEK, SD, HWD
- EAWS (Ergonomic Assessment Worksheet) integrated
- Can determine times for processes before they exist (planning phase)
- Deeply established in German automotive (BMW, VW, and others)
- Client-server architecture for large enterprise deployment
When to Choose
Choose Yamazo Studio when...
You Analyze Existing Processes via Video
When you need to study actual production processes by recording and analyzing video, Yamazo's video-first approach captures real-world variability and operator behavior.
Your Team Doesn't Have MTM Certification
TiCon requires MTM certification training, which is expensive and time-consuming. Yamazo Studio can be used by any industrial engineer with standard software onboarding.
You Need SMED or Yamazumi Charts
Yamazo Studio includes built-in SMED analysis and auto-generated Yamazumi charts. TiCon is focused on MTM predetermined times, not video-based lean tools.
Consider the alternative when...
You Need MTM Compliance
If your organization requires MTM-compliant time standards (MTM-1, MTM-2, UAS, MEK), TiCon is the official software from the German MTM Association.
You're Planning New Processes
TiCon can calculate standard times for processes that don't exist yet using MTM motion codes. Video-based tools like Yamazo can only analyze processes that have been recorded.
You Need EAWS Ergonomic Assessment
TiCon integrates EAWS (Ergonomic Assessment Worksheet), which is widely used in German automotive. Yamazo offers WERA, which is a different ergonomic method.
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Resources
What is Cycle Time? | Definition, Measurement & Optimization
What is Line Balancing? | Methods, Benefits & Tools
Yamazo Studio for Automotive Tier Suppliers | Video Analysis Software
Yamazo Studio for Medical Device Manufacturing | Process Analysis Software
Little's Law Calculator
Process Cycle Efficiency (PCE) Calculator
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