Yamazo VAS vs Time Prism
Feature Comparison 2026
Yamazo VAS and Time Prism are both video-based time study tools. Time Prism, developed by Nihon Seikoh Giken in Japan, uses click analysis on video frames with therblig classifications. This comparison highlights the differences in modern capabilities, platform support, and analysis depth.
Feature Comparison
| Feature | Yamazo VAS | Time Prism |
|---|---|---|
| Platform | Windows + macOS | Windows only (XP SP3+) |
| License Protection | Software-based activation | USB hardware dongle required |
| Video Analysis Method | Multi-video unified timeline with tracks | Click analysis on video frames |
| Work Classification | Customizable VA / IWA / IWR / MUDA categories | Therblig-based color-coded classification |
| Multi-Video Support | Yes — merge multiple recordings | Not available |
| Multi-Track | Unlimited parallel tracks (human + machine) | Not available |
| Yamazumi Charts | Auto-generated | Not available |
| SMED Analysis | Built-in dedicated track type | Not available |
| Line Balancing | Drag-and-drop simulation | Work load leveling with drag-and-drop |
| Ergonomic Assessment | WERA ergonomic analysis | Not available |
| AI Motion Detection | Offline AI (Windows + macOS) | Not available |
| Data Security | Local-only, no cloud | Standard |
| Standard Time Library | Built-in element tracking across studies | Static analysis only — no standard time library |
| Offline Operation | 100% Offline | Desktop application (offline) |
| Export Formats | PDF, Excel, CSV, JSON | Limited export options |
Yamazo VAS Advantages
- Cross-platform: runs on both Windows and macOS
- Multi-video merges multiple recordings into one unified timeline
- Unlimited parallel tracks for human + machine work
- Auto-generated Yamazumi charts and Standard Work Combination Sheets
- Built-in SMED analysis
- WERA ergonomic assessment
- AI motion detection for automated analysis
- Offline local database
- No USB dongle required — software-based licensing
- Modern UI and active development
Alternative Advantages
- Therblig analysis with color-coded work element classification
- Time charts with detailed therblig visualization
- Drag-and-drop work load leveling
- Supports a wide range of video formats (AVI, MPEG, H.264, WMV, MOV)
- Japanese-origin tool with established presence in Japanese manufacturing
When to Choose
Choose Yamazo VAS when...
You Need a Modern, Cross-Platform Tool
Time Prism requires Windows (XP SP3+) and a USB dongle. Yamazo VAS runs on both Windows and macOS with software-based activation — no hardware key needed.
You Analyze Complex Multi-Station Lines
Yamazo's multi-video and unlimited multi-track capabilities enable full assembly line analysis. Time Prism is focused on single-video, single-process analysis.
You Need SMED, Yamazumi, or Ergonomics
Yamazo VAS includes built-in SMED analysis, auto-generated Yamazumi charts, and WERA ergonomic assessment. These features are not available in Time Prism.
Consider the alternative when...
You Use Therblig-Based Analysis
If your standard work analysis methodology is based on therblig classifications (reach, grasp, move, position, etc.), Time Prism provides native therblig analysis with color-coded visualization.
You're in a Japanese Manufacturing Environment
Time Prism has an established presence in Japanese manufacturing and may integrate better with existing Japanese production system workflows and documentation standards.
Frequently Asked Questions
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