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1. Classical

Classical Management Theory emerged in response to the Industrial Revolution, emphasizing organizational structure and efficiency through three main approaches: Scientific Management, Administrative Management, and Bureaucratic Management. Scientific Management, pioneered by Frederick W. Taylor, focuses on improving productivity through systematic study and standardization of work methods. While it offers benefits like increased efficiency and data-driven decisions, it also has drawbacks such as the dehumanization of workers and neglect of social dynamics.

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2 views

1. Classical

Classical Management Theory emerged in response to the Industrial Revolution, emphasizing organizational structure and efficiency through three main approaches: Scientific Management, Administrative Management, and Bureaucratic Management. Scientific Management, pioneered by Frederick W. Taylor, focuses on improving productivity through systematic study and standardization of work methods. While it offers benefits like increased efficiency and data-driven decisions, it also has drawbacks such as the dehumanization of workers and neglect of social dynamics.

Uploaded by

Teferi Costa
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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1.

Classical Management Theory

Classical Management Theory materialized during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, essentially as a
reaction to the complications brought in by the Industrial Revolution. This theory focuses on
organizational structure and efficiency through systematic management practices.

Classically, it is possible to speak of three main approaches within the framework of the management
theory.

A Scientific Management:

This approach relies heavily on the systematic study of work methods to improve efficiency and
productivity.

The main figure behind scientific management is Frederick W. Taylor. He offered such principles as time
studies, standardization of tasks, and scientific selection of workers.

B. Administrative Management

It focuses on the organization as a whole and the development of administrative principles guiding
management practices.

Henri Fayol also falls under this category, as he was one of the key proposers of the functions of
management, which include planning, organizing, leading, coordinating, and controlling.

C Bureaucratic Management:

This approach focuses on a well-structured, formalized organization, while rules and procedures govern
its character.

The principal theorist usually associated with bureaucratic management is Max Weber.

These are the three approaches that, in sum, define the classical management theory, each adding
something different to understanding the ways organizational efficiency and effectiveness can be
enhanced.

▎2. Scientific Management Theory

Scientific Management Theory by Frederick W. Taylor aims to enhance economic efficiency and labor
productivity using scientific methods. The work of Taylor gave birth to modern management concepts.

Frederick W. Taylor:

Taylor is often referred to as the "father of scientific management." He conducted time studies to
identify the most efficient ways to perform tasks. He analyzed workflows, focusing on task optimization
and worker productivity. He summarized his observations and recommended techniques for the
increase of efficiency by the scientific study and measurement of work processes in his seminal book
entitled "The Principles of Scientific Management", 1911.

Frank and Lillian Gilbreth

Frank and Lillian Gilbreth were early advocates of time and motion study techniques, which were based
on Taylor's principles.They looked into the types of motion involved in a particular task to eliminate
unnecessary motions in order to increase efficiency.

Henry L. Gantt

Henry L. Gantt was an American engineer and management consultant; he is well remembered due to
his immense contribution to project management.He invented the Gantt chart, which graphically
represents what tasks will be done at what time and by whom, thereby easing plans and coordination.

Benefits of Scientific Management Theory

• Efficiency: Examining workflows for inefficiencies and making improvements to tasks can substantially
improve productivity for an organization.

• Standardization: Standardizes quality and output for specific tasks.

• Data-driven decisions: It looks to empirical evidence for decisions on management practices.

• Improved work conditions: A focus on task efficiency could lead to better ergonomic practices.

Disadvantages of Scientific Management Theory

• Dehumanization of workers: The strong focus on efficiency might disregard the needs and innovative
capacity of individual workers.

• Inflexibility: There is an in-built propensity to resist change or innovation.

• Productivity Emphasis: The constant pressure to perform may lead to burnout or dissatisfaction among
employees.

• Social Factors Neglected: Very often, they fail to consider the social dynamics of teams and
organization.

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