Lesson 3: Management Theories

Scientific Management Theory

In 1911, Fredrick Winslow Taylor published his work, The Principles of Scientific Management, which analyzed the efficiency of workflow.


He observed and timed steelworkers on the job. He determined what each worker should be producing; then, he designed the most efficient way of doing each part of the task. He implemented an early form of a piece-rate pay system that increased wages of workers who met and exceeded the target level of output for each job.

  1. Develop a science or knowledge for each operation.
  2. From this knowledge, determine the correct time and method for each job.
  3. Establish an organization that removes all responsibility from the workers except for the job they do.
  4.  Select and train workers.
  5. Co-operate with the workers, and do not assume and use arbitrary power.

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Scientific Management Theory has several advantages and disadvantages.


Think about what they might be, and then click the tabs below.

  • Better utilization of resources
  • Increase in efficiency
  • Scientific selection and training of employees
  • Harmonious relationship between workers and management
  • Standardization of tools, material, techniques, equipment
  • Reduction of production costs
  • Application of scientific methods and techniques in better working conditions to reduce fatigue
  • Higher wages to the workers for higher productivity
  • Based on one best way, which is not always good for today's dynamic and complex organizations
  • Focuses on individual performance, which divides workers into efficient and inefficient categories
  • Focuses on specialization and repetition of jobs, which reduces innovation and creativity and promotes monotony
  • Neglects human factor
  • Managers develop the steps, ignoring creativity of employees; employees can become frustrated