Question

Explain the following principles of Scientific Management: (i) Science, Not Rule of Thumb (ii) Cooperation, Not Individualism (iii) Development of…

Accepted Answer

(a) (i) Science, Not Rule of Thumb  It states that there is only one best method to maximise efficiency. This method can be developed through scientific study and analysis of each element of a job and should substitute 'Rule of Thumb'.  The standard method should be followed throughout the organisation. (ii) Cooperation, Not Individualism  There should be complete cooperation between the labour and the management instead of individualism. Competition should be replaced by cooperation.  Management should take workers into confidence before making any important decision. At the same time workers should avoid strikes and unreasonable demands. (iii) Development of Each and Every Person to His and Her Greatest Efficiency and Prosperity  This principle is concerned with efficiency of employees which could be built in right from the process of employee selection.  The work assigned to employees should suit their capabilities. They should be given the required training to increase their efficiency. Efficient employees would produce more and earn more. OR (i) Providing managers with useful insights into reality  Principles of management provide useful insights into reality by enabling the managers to learn from past mistakes and conserve time by solving recurring problems quickly.  Adherence to the principles will add to their knowledge, ability and understanding of managerial situations and circumstances. (ii) Meeting changing environment requirements.  The principles are in the nature of general guidelines but they are modified to help the managers meet changing requirements of the environment.  Management principles are flexible to adapt to dynamic business environment. (iii) Scientific decisions  Principles of management help in taking scientific decisions because the decisions based on principles are free from bias.  They are based on the objective assessment of the situation.

Marking-scheme solution

More from Principles of Management