Scientific Management

Abstract

Scientific management is a management technique developed during the later stages of the industrial period, which focuses on systematising the work processes and quantifying the results.

Historical context

Here I will explain what characterises the period in which this management technique was born.

Principles

The four core principles of Scientific Management are

1) That all aspects of the work be analysed critcally and quantitively.

2) That workers be assigned the jobs that fit them the best.

3) That workers and managers be scientifically educated in each of their respective roles.

4) That workers and manager corporate to maximise efficiency. Managers focus on managing, which includes the supervision of workers and results. It is the manager's job to make sure that the work is being done in the most efficient manner at all times. (1) (2)

Examples of practice

Soviet Union?

American factories?

China?

Modern examples?

Criticism

Too rigid and arbitrary. Difficult to use outside of factories (i.e. service)

References

(1) The Principles of Scientific Management (1911) by Frederick Winslow Taylor // (2) https://www.mindtools.com/anx8725/frederick-taylor-and-scientific-management