Define scientific management. State any three of its principles.
The concept of scientific management was introduced by Winslow Taylor in the USA at the beginning of the 20th century. It was later developed by other researchers as well. Scientific management is concerned with knowing exactly what you want it your men to do and seeing that they do it in the best and the cheapest manner. There are three principles of scientific management which are explained below:
a. Science, Not rule of thumb: According to Taylor, scientific management must be put into practice and not the rule of thumb. Rule of thumb refers to the practice of handling the situation as and when it arises by the manager. It heavily relies on the trial and error system. Taylor had suggested that a thorough study of the different methods of solving a problem must be done and the most appropriate solution should be adopted and followed by all the managers in your organisation. This would help to reduce cost and improve efficiency.
b. Harmony not discord: According to this principle, there must be a healthy relationship between the managers and the workers in an organisation. Both of them are dependent on each other. The worker has to take instructions from the manager and the managers have to get the work done through the workers. The management should take complete care about the needs of the workers and the workers should work with utmost dedication and efficiency. This type of harmonious environment would lead to the achievement of the goals of the organisation.
c. Personal development: If the company wishes to effectively and efficiently achieve its goals, it must be taken into consideration that the overall efficiency of the company depends upon the individual abilities. The employees must be properly trained and developed so that their productivity can be increased.