Scientific Management

According to Taylor, scientific management in its essence consists of a philosophy which results in a combination of four important underlying principles of management. First, the development of a true science, second, the scientific selection of the workers, third, their scientific education and development, Froth, intimate co-operation between management and their men. The basic principles of Taylor philosophy of scientific management are as noted below. These principles of scientific management are most crucial aspects of scientific management.

1. The development of 'One best way" of doing a job. This suggests the task of finding out the best method for achieving the objectives of a given job. The standards are decided scientifically for Jobs and incentive wages were paid for all production above this standard. Here, job analysis and standardization of tools, equipment, machinery, etc. are required.

2. Scientific selection of workers and their development through proper training.

3. Scientific approach by management. The management has to develop a true science in all fields of work activity through scientific investigation and experiments.

4. Close co-operation of managers and workers (labour management relations) for better results and understandings.

5. Elimination of conflict between methods and men. The workers are likely to resist to new methods. This can be avoided by providing them an opportunity to earn more wages.

Features of Scientific Management

1. Scientific Task Setting:

F. W. Taylor suggested the introduction of standard task which every worker is expected to complete within one day (working hours) the task is to be calculated through careful scientific investigation. For this, work study (i.e. method study and work measurement study) is essential. Taylor suggested time study, motion study, fatigue study and rate-setting for the introduction of scientific task. Time study is the art of observing and recording the time required to do each detailed element in an industrial operation. Motion study refers to the study and analysis of the movements of an operator while performing a job so that attempts can be made to remove useless/unwanted movements from the process. Both the studies together help in determining the best method of performing a job and the standard time allowed for it. This replaces the old rule-of-thumb knowledge of the workers. The workload, the best method of performing the same and the time within which it must be performed are suggested in this feature of scientific management by Taylor.

2. Planning the Task:

For performing the task by every worker, Taylor suggested the need of planning the production activity accurately. This idea of planning is Taylor's gift to the science of management. Planning of task gives answers to the following questions. What has to be done, how it is to be done, where the work shall be done and when the work shall be done.

3. Scientific Selection and Training of Workers:

Taylor suggested the need of scientific selection of workers for the plant/production activities. The procedure of selection must be systematic so as to select the best and the most suitable persons for different types of jobs. Correct placement of workers is equally important He also suggested the need of training of workers so as to raise their ability or efficiency. Training is to be integrated with the promotion policy. He also suggested differential piece wage plan for compensation payment to workers. He also suggested the importance of cordial relations between management and workers.

4. Standardization:

Taylor suggested the importance of standardization of tools and equipment, materials, conditions of work and speed of machines. This brings co-ordination in different activities and all workers will be able to perform the task assigned easily. The workers will have satisfactory working conditions for work due to such standardization.

5. Specialization:

Taylor suggested specialization in the administrative and organizational setup of the plant He suggested functional foremanship. Taylor recommended eight functional foremen for different activities and functions. The foremen suggested by him are like route clerk, instruction card clerk, speed boss etc. Such specialization is useful for raising efficiency of the whole organisation.

6. Mental Revolution:

The techniques suggested by F. W. Taylor in his scientific management are different as compared to traditional techniques and methods. Naturally, these techniques can be used only when workers supervisors and managers accept them in theory and also in practice For this, Mental revolution on their part is essential The success of scientific management rests basically on the attitude of management and workers. They must give up their old ideas and methods and must accept new scientific methods. For this, mental revolution on the part of both is essential. Cooperation from workers and management for the introduction of scientific management depends on this mental revolution.

Benefits / Advantages of Scientific Management

1. Application and use of scientific methods.

2. Wide scope for specialization and accurate planning.

3. Minimum wastages of materials, time and money.

4. Cordial relations between workers and management.

5. Benefits to workers (higher wages and less burden of work), management (cost reduction, better quality productions) and consumers (superior goods at lower prices)

Scientific management not only developed a rational approach to solving organisational problems but also contributed a great deal to the professionalisation of management. Time and motion studies, scientific selection of workers, work design and one best way to doing a job are some new ideals suggested by Taylor and are responsible for the introduction of Many positive changes in the field of industrial/ production management.