3. Scientific Management Theory
A term coined in 1910 to describe the system of industrial
management created and promoted by Frederick W. Taylor (1856–
1915) and his followers.
Also called Taylorism, it was a theory of
management that analyzed and synthesized workflows
Main objective was improving economic efficiency, especially labor
productivity. It was one of the earliest attempts to apply science to
the engineering of processes and to management.
Any system of organization that clearly spelled out the functions of
individuals and groups
5. Advantages/Benefits
1. Enhanced production:
The scientific management theory is responsible for enhanced production as it
concentrates on steady improvements in business operations. There is fruitful
cooperation between managers and workers and hence enhanced team work is
achieved. The harmonious relationship between the management and workers assists in
production in the organization also called Taylorism, it was a theory of
management that analyzed and synthesized workflows
2. Ability to control:
The best part of scientific management theory is that the managers are able to have
good control over production. Employees become specialists in their field as they do the
same task repeatedly; this makes it easy for the manager to have control over
employees.
6. Advantages/Benefits
3. Quick decision making:
Planning ahead of time and prompt decision making are few good aspects of
scientific management theory.
4. Benefit to customers:
With the help of scientific management theory there is triple benefits for the
consumers. Consumers pay fewer prices and are able to get best quality products. They
are also able to attain better living standards.
5. Cost of production is reduced:
The mechanization and latest use of technology in production of goods enhances
productivity. Since there is enhanced large scale production, there is decrease in per
unit cost of production.
7. Disadvantages/Limitations
1. Requires huge capital:
The theory requires investment of huge capital and is considered as a costly system. The
establishment of work study, planning department, training of workers, and standardization
requires more money.
2. Planning reduces productivity:
Though the capability to plan ahead is an advantage, the downside of planning is that it
makes work inflexible and ridged and may lead to carelessness and dissatisfaction. This is
directed to less productivity.
3. Not suitable for teams:
Scientific management theory doesn’t work fruitful for teams and groups as they have the
capability to abuse and exploit human beings which may lead to conflicts. There is no scope for
individual preference with this theory. Functional foremanship was followed by Taylor, where the
workers were required to report to eight bosses. By this way the unity of command was broken,
where the worker needs to report to just one boss. When there is no unity of command, there is
confusion and disorder in the organization.
8. Disadvantages/Limitations
4. Work division:
By applying scientific management theory there is separation of work such as in planning
any function and executing them. Since management takes complete responsibility, there is
reduction in workers role into rigid and adherence procedures where, the workers have no idea.
5. Planning reduces productivity:
Though the capability to plan ahead is an advantage, the downside of planning is that it
makes work inflexible and ridged and may lead to carelessness and dissatisfaction. This is
directed to less productivity.
6. Avoids bargaining:
Since the scientific approach follows piece work pay system, there is not chance for any
realistic bargaining regarding the wage rates, as the tasks are timed, measured and rated
scientifically.
