Existing automation analyses are mostly solution-oriented methods that require deep expert and process knowledge. Established methods, such as tolerance chain analyses or variant considerations, are often not considered. However, an objective comprehensive evaluation is only guaranteed by the integration of those methods paired with solution-neutral evaluation criteria. Furthermore, existing automation analyses do not include an evaluation of the temporal optimisation potential of individual processes. This often hinders a target-oriented automation as the focus is too strongly placed on the automatability rather than on the optimal utilization of existing potentials. The flexible modular method presented in this article is intended to enable the user to analyse the conditions of product, process and equipment in a targeted manner by means of a neutral and objective evaluation as well as to make automation recommendations depending on the optimisation potential. The modular method is designed for assembly processes in existing manual and hybrid workplaces in series assembly. Existing workplaces are analysed regarding their existing optimisation potential. For this purpose, the actual state of the workplace is compared with an ideal state and evaluated in terms of time. The standardised procedure MTM-2 is used for the temporal evaluation of the processes. The evaluation of the automation capability of the processes, using a utility value analysis, is carried out based on product and process-related criteria in four stages. By comparing the available optimisation potential with the technical automatability, automation recommendations are made for individual process steps.