Professional Documents
Culture Documents
Unit – 02
Learning Objectives
Introduction
The word “Principle” represents a concept or statement or a basic truth about a subject. It helps
in framing guidelines for taking actions towards achieving desired goals. Management is also
based on some fundamental principles. On the basis of these principles, managerial action plans
are prepared and implemented from time to time.
Management principles may be defined as broad and genuine guidelines works as a basis for
taking various managerial decisions and behaviours in a business enterprise. These principles
help and guide the managers to operate and control the business smoothly, economically,
effectively and efficiently. It works as a tool of guidance for the managerial personnel to improve
their skills and competence level.
(a) Principles of Management are flexible in nature in comparison with pure science. Principles
laid down in pure science are rigid.
(b) Application of management principles are done creatively as it deals with behaviour of
human beings. On the other hand, principles of science are applied in static manner along
with universal acceptance.
(c) Principles followed in case of management are required to be changed and updated from time
to time with the changes in business environment. No such changes take place in case of
scientific principle.
(a) Management principles are regarded as the basic guidelines followed to take various
managerial decisions and actions where as values refer to the general rules framed for the
behaviour of an individual in a society.
(b) Principles of management are technical in nature where as values are of ethical.
(c) Principles are based on the output of research and experimentation where as values are based
on quality preaching and existing practices.
Principles of management are manmade. These principles are developed over a period of time.
There are two basic steps followed in the process of developing management principles. These
are:
Under this method, researchers and Practionners are deeply observing various practical aspects
related to business to draw conclusions. On the basis of their recommendation, management
principles are developed.
For Example, it was observed that efficiency of the employees at different levels of management
can be improved significantly by dividing the entire work or task in to various units. It leads to
development of a new management principle termed as ‘Division of Labour’.
Under this method, management principles are derived out of the conclusions drawn on the basis
of experimentation. Validity and authenticity of the decisions or statements can be tested or
verified by following rigorous experiments.
For Example, in a company, it was decided to experiment with two different units of the
production department of a concern. One unit is operated under the leadership of one Manager
whereas the other unit is worked under the control of three different managers. After a given
period of time, it was observed that the first unit performs better than the second unit because
employees are performing better under the leadership of one superior in a business organization.
This principle was termed as “Unity of Command”.
Management principles play a crucial role in each and every business organization especially in
decision making. These principles work as guidelines for the mangers in taking various business
decisions to attain the organizational objectives. The basic nature or characteristics of
management principles are as follows:
Universal
Application
Depening
Basic
upon
Guidelines
condition
Nature of
Management Rigorous
Cause and
Effect Principles practice and
Relationship
experiments
Human
Flexibility
Behaviour
1. Universal Application
Management principles are applicable to all types of organizations such as business concern,
government institutions and individuals irrespective of their nature and size. It is also applied at
every levels of management viz. Top, Middle and Supervisory Level. It is not always providing
uniform result and may vary from concern to concern but can be applied as a whole.
For Example, principle of division of work, labour, unity of command can be applied in all types
of business organization. But the result may vary depending upon the nature and size of the
enterprise and affecting factors.
2. Basic Guidelines
The principles of management act as guideline for decision making and taking necessary action
in a business concern. These principles work as a base for decision making in the business but
does not provide any type of readymade solutions to the problems of business.
For Example, Bhateja Co. Ltd. is a renowned book seller in the state of Punjab. Company is
adopting the principle of fair remuneration to its employees as per the nature of their work.
Minimum salary paid by the company to its employees is Rs 18,000 per month. On the other
hand, L & T Co. Ltd. is a Multi National Company operated in India and abroad. The company
provides Rs 30,000 to its workers as minimum base salary. From the above, it is clear that
principles can be used as a guide to the management but varies from concern to concern
depending on their nature and size.
Managerial principles have been designed or framed and developed on the basis of rigorous
practice and experiments undertaken in a business from time to time. It is not emerged or
evolved within a fort-night. It is the end result derived from continuous practice,
experimentation, deeper thoughts and foresights of the management people.
For Example, Principle of unity of command is not framed or developed at a glance. It was
marked or identified from the difference in the efficiency level of people at work. It was
experimented that if a department or a group of people or an individual performs better than that
of others controlled and regulated by more than one superior. So, this principle is evolved over a
period of time on the basis of practice and experimentation.
4. Flexibility
Management principles are flexible in nature. Hence, these can be used differently at different
places as per the demand of situation. These principles can be suitable modified by the mangers
to use them effectively.
The principles of management influence the behaviours of human beings generally people
associated with the business. It helps in developing relationship between superiors and
subordinates belonging to all the levels of management in a business organization. It also
improves the relation between physical and human resources for attainment of the organizational
objectives.
For Example, Principle of Order can be effectively used in an organization to ensure smooth
flow of materials and employees which ultimately leads to attainment of the organizational
objectives.
Management principles are based on cause and effect relationship. It refers to the application of
the principles of management in different situation and their post effects. The results of the
applications of these principles are not necessarily give uniform and absolute results as it deals
with human behaviour and may get vary at times.
For Example, as per the principles of division of work, all the workers or employees of a
business organization should be assigned work on the basis of their skill, caliber and capabilities.
This will create specialization among the employees. In this case, division of work may be
regarded as the ‘cause’ and specialization of employees as ‘effect’.
For Example, Principle of team spirit can be used in those organizations where people are
working in a group while it is absolutely of no use in case of those concerns where works are
undertaken or performed by individuals and not by a group of members.
Management principles are of prime importance in the field of business especially for the
managers. These principles are followed as guidelines by the managers in the process of taking
various decisions and making necessary changes in their plan of action. They can even amend
their previous decisions as per these principles.
Meeting the
changing need
of business
environment
Performing
Scientific
Social
Decisions
Responsibilities
Significance of
Management
Principles
Facilitates
Optimum
Research and
utilization of
development in
available
management
resources
studies
Helps in taking
managerial
decisions
The principles of management are very much useful in the process of taking managerial
decisions. These principles work as guidelines for the managers and improve their knowledge,
ability, skill and efficiency. Managers have an option to learn from their mistakes and can make
necessary changes as per the need or situation.
Managers generally deal with operation and administration of various activities undertaken in
business. They are utilizing all available resources of business optimally. Resources may be
available in the form of man and material. It is the duty of the managers to utilize both human
resources and material resources optimally. In this process, management principles play an
important role. These principles help in reducing wastages, developing effective administration,
utilizing the skill and capabilities of the workers etc. in the organization.
For Example, principle of unity of command can be followed to avoid chows, confusions and
conflicts among workers in a business enterprise.
For Example, Principle of Time Study suggested by F.W. Taylor to establish or set up the
standard time required for completing a given job or task rather than depending exclusively on
the discretion of the manager.
Each business organization has to make some necessary changes in its approach due to the
changing nature of business environment. Management principles help the managers to meet the
changing environmental requirements. These principles work as a guide to the manager in the
process of implementing the right changes in the right direction in the business organization.
For Example, Principle of division of work has used in a differently by some of the business
enterprises to face the growing competition. Some of the big business organizations have
restructured their business and concentrating exclusively on their core business and outsourced
their non-core business activities. This is an extension and modified use of the principle of
division of work that has crossed departmental boundaries to the outsourced institutions.
Every business enterprise has some social obligations to perform. Management principles help
the managers to perform their social obligations.
Management principles play the role of sheet anchor in the process of research and development
of the management studies. These principles facilitate research and generation of employment in
the management field. Management principles can be used as a guideline for management
training and education. These principles are used in the educational institutions and universities
providing management education as a part of their academia.
Henri Fayol is regarded as the Father of Management studies and thoughts due to his following
contributions:
(a) He defined the possible differences in between technical and managerial skill.
(b) He explored the major functions of management such as Planning, Organizing, Staffing,
Directing and Controlling.
(c) He had developed and framed 14 different principles of management which acts as a
framework or guidelines for managers to perform several managerial activities.
As per this principle, the entire work or tasks are to be divided into small units and to be
performed by the experts or trained workers. The entire work should not be entrusted on one
person. The tasks or jobs should be divided into small parts and assigned to the employees as per
their skill, caliber, capabilities, specialization and experience. This process of division of work
will enhance the level of efficiency of individuals due to division of work. On the basis of this
principle, there are different departments formed in a business organization such as Production,
Finance, Marketing, Human Resource etc. This principle can be applied in all types of
organizations, be it private and public sector.
For Example, State Bank of India, the largest public sector bank in the country follows the
principle of division of work. Bank assigns one employee for one specific work like one person
for deposits, one for withdrawal, one is dealing with issue of loans, one is responsible for
redressing consumer grievances etc.
Fayol defines authority as the right to give orders and responsibility is the corollary of authority.
Authority refers to the power of taking various decisions. Responsibility stands for the
obligations to carry out a given job assigned. According to the Fayol, there should be a proper
balance required to be maintained in between authority and responsibility. Employees are to be
given authority along with responsibility. Grant of excess authority without matching
responsibility may generate adverse results. If an employee is given excess responsibility without
sufficient authority, he or she may not be able to give proper justice to the tasks assigned to
him/her in time. Hence, it is required to maintain parity between authority and responsibility.
For Example, Mr. Rakesh Menon is working as a finance manager in a multi-national company
based at Mumbai. Company has bagged offer of two different projects worth Rs 20 crore each.
Company has to decide upon one out of the two projects. Rakesh is a highly qualified individual
capable of analyzing the profitability and other aspects related with projects. But he is not
authorized to take any decisions related with the projects. In this case, company may not take an
effective decision regarding the selection of projects.
3) Discipline
Discipline refers to the basic rules, regulations, terms, conditions and the process of working in
an organization. It motivates employees to work systematically and meticulously towards
attainment of organizational objectives. According to Fayol, discipline must be maintained at all
levels of management. It should be followed by both the superiors and subordinates.
For Example, as per this principle, superior should take due care of the subordinate staff
members in the form of grievances redressal, annual increment, fair remuneration, working
environment, promotional facilities whereas subordinates have to perform their duty effectively
and efficiently.
Positive Effects
It creates chaos and confusions among workers due to supervision at all levels of
management.
Completion of work may get delayed due to disobedience of rules and regulations
4) Unity of Command
According to Fayol, One person should receive orders from one superior or boss. He suggested
that an individual should work and perform under the supervision and guidance of one boss and
held accountable and answerable to him. In case an employee receives orders from more than
one superior or boss at a time, it may create conflicts, chaos and confusions. So, Principle of
unity of command is used to ensure smooth flow of work and to avoid confusions and conflicts
of the workers.
For Example, Mr. Hritik is working in Surat Trade Mills Ltd. as a sales executive. He gets order
from his sales manager Mr. Vikas Singh to increase the volume of sales to reach the target in
time. On the other hand, Mr. Raman Bhat, Production Manager of the company instructs Mr.
Hritik to adopt a slow marketing policy or strategy due to slowdown in production level. In such
a situation, conflicts and confusions arises in the mind of Mr. Hritik. He remains in a dilemma
about what to do and who to listen. So, Principle of unity of command must be used in a business
to avoid such issues.
Positive Effects
It may result in creation of chaos, confusions and conflicts in the mind of employees.
It opens a way for the subordinates to avoid taking responsibility and onus of work
It becomes difficult to maintain discipline in the organization
5) Unity of Direction
Unity of Direction is the principle suggested for ‘One Plan for One Unit’. In other words, there
are different activities undertaken in an organization but activities containing the common goal
or target must have one boss and one plan. This principle helps in developing unity of action and
proper coordination in the business enterprise.
For Example, Hindustan Unilever Ltd. is one of the biggest industries of India producing
different types of Fast Moving consumer goods or products. Company has divided separate
departments for production of different products. Each division or departments should have their
own plans, policies, resources and managers to attain their departmental targets.
Positive Effects
In the absence of proper coordination among departments, conflicts and inefficiency may
arise;
Duplication of work may become possible;
Wastage of resources including man, materials and time may happen;
According to this principle suggested by Fayol, group interest or organizational interest should
be given priority over that of individual ones. Each and every organization possesses some
objectives and targets to be achieved. This is also applicable in case of individuals or employees
working in an organization. Ideally, the interest of the employees should not be contradictory to
that of the general interest of the business firm. In case of difference, managers should take
necessary steps to reconcile the personal interests of individuals with organizational goal. In
certain cases, individual interests are to be sacrificed for a better cause of attuning the
organizational objectives.
For Example, It is a general perception that employees are looking for a high remuneration,
posts, and authority in their workplace. But when company is going through a rough patch and
trying to recover from the financial issues, it may not be possible to fulfill all the needs of the
employees. Expenses may be curtailed down up to an extent to face the monetary challenge. In
this process, individual interests are to be sacrificed for a better organizational interest.
Positive Effects
Organizational goals may not be achieved due to vested personal interests of individuals
Leads to conflicts among employees due to over ambitious nature and personal interests
For Example, JPR Co. Ltd. is following a strategy of paying healthy financial packages to its
employees. Besides remuneration, employees are also getting some fringe or nonfinancial
benefits like free lunch, breakfast, education to the children etc. This helps in increasing the
efficiency of the employees at work and reduces labour turnover.
Positive Effects
It helps in extracting the best from the employees by paying good packages.
It may lead to develop the commitment and dedication of workers in the organization.
Centralization may be defined as a process of concentrating or assigning of all the authorities and
power of decision making in a single hand. As per this principle, one man has bestowed all the
powers and authorities to take all the decisions of the organization as per his/her own discretion
or will. On the other hand, decentralization refers to the distribution of power and authority
evenly in between number of responsible persons in an organization to ensure smooth
management and operation. As per this principle, management should be free from personal bias
or conventions.
For Example, in a corporate sector, all the policy decisions related to determination of
organizational goals or targets, plans, strategies etc. are to be centralized. These decisions should
be taken by the top level management consisting of experts and specialized personnel. But, the
operational routine nature works in an organization like purchase of raw material, selection of
suppliers, recruitment of staffs etc. can be de decentralized and perfumed by respective
departments.
Positive Effects
9) Scalar Chain
Scalar chain refers to a formal structure or lines of authority or chain of superiors ranging from
the top most rank to the lowest rank. Henri Fayol strongly recommended this principle to be
adopted and followed by all type of organizations. Scalar chain works as a channel of
communication through which instructions or orders issued by the top level authorities are
communicated to the lower levels.
For Example, a lower level worker cannot have a direct access to the CEO or COO. He has to
convene his grievances to the Top Level officials through the formal levels i.e. Foreman,
Superintendent, Manager, Director etc.
The principle of scalar chain is generally used in all the organizations during the normal course
of action. But this process takes lot of time. This principle is not applicable in case of emergency.
For that purpose, Fayol suggested a short cut chain system to avoid delay in time termed as
“Gang Plank”. Gang Plank permits direct interaction or communication between the employees
belonging to different levels and positions without following the principle of scalar chain. This
principle of gang plank should be used in case of emergency to avoid delay in time and to
expedite coordination.
Positive Effects
As per this principle, the word ‘Order’ does not represent command. It refers to systematic
arrangement of different resources including men and materials in a business unit. This principle
advocated for a suitable place for everything and everyone in the organization. According to
Fayol, “People and material must be in suitable places at appropriate time for maximum
efficiency”. Order may be of two different types namely Material Order and Social Order.
Material Order represents the systematic arrangement of materials where as Social order denotes
the arrangement of people in an organization.
For Example, A manager working in a company is assigned a cabin for performing its official
work. Workers working in that same company have provided tools or equipments for their work
and a tool box to keep their belongings. They can go and meet the manager at his or her cabin to
convey their grievances. If there is no fixed place allotted to the managers and no places to keep
the tools or equipments to workers, then all these people keep on wasting their time in search of
their requirements.
Positive Effects
It may result in wastage of time and energy in search of men and materials.
Timely Communication and proper coordination among employees may not become
possible.
In this principle, Fayol suggested to treat the employees in the organization as fairly as possible.
Equity refers to be kind and fair towards employees and providing them proper justice at the
work place. All workers should be treated equally and measures under a uniform parameter
without any type of discrimination on the basis of sex, religion, caste, belief etc.
For Example, Reliance Industries Ltd. is a multinational company where people belonging to
different country, caste, religion are working at different positions. Company is to treat them all
as employees without any discrimination. Equal opportunities must be provided to them for their
career growth and development without any personal favoritism or biasness.
Positive Effects
Positive Effects
13) Initiative
Initiative refers to the initial steps taken by the employees towards accomplishment of their
individual targets through motivating themselves. As per this principle, employees should
provide freedom up to certain extent to express themselves in a better way. It helps them in
executing their plans to reach targets. Mangers may consider the suggestions of employees at
times. But the common practices adopted by the organization get affected with the adoption and
application of this principle.
Positive Effects
It brings employee close to the business and develops attachment for the enterprise.
It enhances the level of employee satisfaction.
In the words of Henri Fayol, “Management should promote a team spirit of unity and harmony
among the workers or employees”. Principle of Espirit De Corps refers to the team spirit, unity
and harmony in a business firm. Management should work as a team with proper coordination. It
becomes essential for a manager to move forward with the team rather going single handedly.
For Example, A company is fixing a target of selling 10,000 units in the month of July. Sales
manager divides the whole target in to small units of 2,500 units among the team of sales
executives consisting of four members. All of these members of sales team are asked to sale
2,500 units each by the end of July. Principle of Esprit De Corps suggested that sales executives
should not only concentrate on their individual goals. They have to work as a team to achieve the
organizational goals in time.
Positive Effects
The full name of F.W.Taylor is Fredrick Winslow Taylor. He was born on March 20, 1856 in
U.S.A. He was a Mechanical Engineer started his career in the year 1874 as an Apprentice
Machinist. Later, in the year 1878, he joined Midville Steel Company. He joined Tuck School of
Business as a Professor in the year 1900. During 1900-1907, he was elected as the President of
‘American Society of Mechanical Engineers’. He used his knowledge of engineering effectively
and creatively in developing management studies and thoughts. He contributed to the field of
management a lot from his continuous research, observations and experimentations. He was
defining and developing new principles related to efficiency of the workers and optimum
utilization of resources. He developed a new school of thought based on scientific techniques
termed as scientific management. Taylor’s principles and techniques are used in all organizations
as an effective tool of management. F.W.Taylor is regarded as the father of Scientific
Management.
Major Contributions of Taylor
The major contributions of F W Taylor towards management studies are described below.
He published number of books and research papers in his long career on industrial
revolution and management.
He authored books titled “Shop Management”, “Piece Rate System”, and “Principles of
Scientific Management”.
He developed different techniques to deal with management related problems.
Scientific management can be defined as use of scientific principles in each and every aspects of
management. In simple words, scientific management refers to application of scientific
techniques or methods and specialized personnel for increasing the industrial production and
efficiency. This management principle advocates for taking managerial decisions on the basis of
scientific studies undertaken by using scientific tools and techniques rather by the manager at
his/her own will.
“Scientific management means knowing exactly what you want your men to do and seeing that
they do it in the best and cheapest way.” F.W. Taylor
“Scientific management focuses on the work. Its core is this organized study of work, the
analysis of work into its simplest elements and the systematic improvement of the workers
performance of each of these elements. Scientific Management has both concepts and easily
applicable tools and techniques”. Peter F Drucker, (P.N. 280)
From the above definitions, it can be concluded that scientific management is based on
continuous observation, objective analysis and innovations. It may be regarded as an art of
knowing exactly what is to be done and the best possible way of doing it.
Harmony, not
discord
According to this principles suggested by Taylor, management decisions should be made on the
basis of scientific studies and observations. It should not be taken by the manger himself on his
personal experience, intuition and trial and error method. This rule of thumb method should be
replaced with scientifically proven techniques in order to increase the organizational efficiency.
As per this principle, one should think before doing. It is essential to adopt and applied scientific
techniques in the field of management in the decision making procedure. This principle is
focused on selecting the best possible way of completing a given task by using scientific
techniques or tools.
For Example, Rahul, production manager of AB Co. Ltd. has set a target for completing a given
task within 10 days. He took the decisions on the basis of his past experiences. According to the
Taylor’s principle, the time set for production must be made on the basis of scientific studies and
not on the basis of rule of thumb.
For Example, the primary objective of the employees is to earn more and more remuneration
whereas management is focused on the maximization of production. Workers or employees must
forget the discord with management and should work together for increasing production of the
organization. This will result in maximizing profits of the concern. Management should share the
profits with the workers in the form of attractive remuneration and other benefits.
This principle is considered as the extension of principle of ‘Harmony, not discord’. This
principle emphasizes on completion of work or task with mutual cooperation and utmost trust
among workers and managers of an organization. Managers are to involve employees at the time
of setting up target. The main objective of doing so is to motivate the workers for putting their
best and to achieve their targets. Suggestions received from various corners of workers are to be
considered and applied in the decision making process if deemed fit.
For Example, workers are to assign work or task which best suits their skills and capabilities. In
case of assigning tasks forcefully may lead to reduction in the efficiency level of the workers or
employees.
Foreman is a person working at the highest rank among the workers belongs to operational sector
of management in a business unit. He deals with the entire production planning, execution or
implementation of plans and takes necessary steps for control. His performance has a direct
impact on the production efficiency of the business concern. Functional Foremanship is defined
as an extension of the principle of specialization. As per this technique, planning and execution
of planning functions are to be separated. Taylor suggested that one person may not be capable
of dealing with all the managerial aspects despite of his skills, qualifications and capabilities. He
advocated for appointing two specialized persons under the factory manager viz. planning in
charge and production in charge. Under planning in charge, there should be four employees
engaged in various posts i.e. instruction card clerk, route clerk, time and cost clerk and
disciplinarian under planning in charge. On the other hand, there are four numbers of personnel
to be posted as speed boss, gang boss, repairs boss and inspector. Functional foremanship has
developed for the purpose of improving the quality of the supervision of workers in the
organization.
A. Planning In charge
Planning in Charge is responsible for preparing plans related to different aspects of a job or tasks
in an organization. It contains four posts or positions. These are:
Instruction Card Clerk is providing instructions to the workers required to complete their tasks or
job in time and in a prescribed manner.
Route Clerk is a person set up the sequence or chronological steps to be taken for completion of
the jobs performed manually or mechanically. He also decides the date and time schedule for the
production.
Time and Cost Clerk is responsible for fixing the time of commencement and completion of jobs
of the workers in a business concern.
(d) Disciplinarian
Disciplinarian is a person responsible for maintenance of discipline in the work place. He has to
coordinate with all the workers to execute the managerial plans effectively for attaining
organizational objectives.
B. Production in Charge
Production in charge is liable for execution of work as per the predetermined plans. It consists of
four posts or positions. These are:
(a) Speed Boss
Speed Boss is regarded as a person responsible for completing the jobs or tasks assigned
accurately within the time frame. He supervises the progress of work from time to time.
Gang Boss is a foreman liable for handling and taking due care of machines and equipments in a
business unit. He makes all the necessary arrangements as regards to machines, tools and other
resources needed in the process of completion of the work to avoid delay.
(d) Inspector
Inspector is a foreman entrusts the work of quality control in the organization. He has to check
whether the work is done as per the prescribed standard or not, fixed by the planning department.
Taylor pioneered for choosing the best possible option of production and tried to fine-tune the
other techniques of production to make them effective for application in the business. There are
different scientific techniques and methods adopted and applied in the organization namely time
study, motion study, fatigue study and method study.
Standardization
For Example, Hindustan Unilever Limited has adopted different scientific techniques or methods
to achieve its organizational objectives. As a result of which, it became a market leader from a
long period of time in this competitive environment.
Objectives of Standardization
(a) To manufacture a specific line of product belonging to same types, sizes and features.
(b) To use manufactured components or accessory parts and the finished product among all the
departments in the organization.
(c) To ensure maintenance of quality in materials through setting up specific standard.
(d) To set up standard for the performance of men and machines
Simplification
Simplification refers to avoid or eliminate unnecessary diversification of products, their sizes and
types. In simple words, simplification means utilization of available resources in an organization
to ensure an uninterrupted flow of production and operation. It concentrates mostly on reducing
unwanted diversity of products. Manufacturing of different types of goods require more
resources in the form of men, materials and machines in an organization. The process of
simplification helps in avoiding all the unnecessary wastage of resources and curtailing
expenditures.
For Example, Multi-National Companies like Apple, Microsoft has followed the procedure of
standardization and simplification in their business operation. These companies are concentrating
on their limited products rather introducing large variety of products.
Work Study
Method Study
Method Study is a technique of scientific management adopted and applied for exploring the best
suitable method for performing several tasks or jobs in an organization. It helps in reducing cost
of production, improving quality of products and optimum utilization of resources. Taylor
developed a concept of assembly line by using the method study technique.
For Example, a manufacturing company should search for the best possible methods of
production. The main objective of these companies are to adopt a labour and machine intensive
method for reducing cost, minimizing wastage and improving quality of the end product. This
may lead to high level of consumer satisfaction.
Motion Study
Time Study
Time Study is defined as a scientific method conducted to determine the standard time taken by
workmen to complete a given task. Standard time to perform a task or a job must be made on
rigorous study and continuous observations. Taylor suggested observing the performance of a
normal worker at the work place. It involves the time taken by the worker for completing his job.
According to Taylor, this process of recording time should be continued for a period of time to
determine the average time spent by the worker for completing a job assigned in his favor. On
the basis of the average time so determined, management should set the standard time limit in the
business organization. The efficiency of the worker will be determined on the basis of time taken
against the standard time fixed.
Fatigue Study
Human being is having some physical limitations and one can’t work like that of a machine. A
person will get both mentally and physically exhausted after working for a specific period of
time. He requires a break or rest period to regain strengths to complete the task in time. Taylor
suggested studying the time spent by the worker in an organization. This process is termed as
Fatigue Study. The main objective of the fatigue study is to identify the number and frequency of
rest or break intervals given to the workers for completing the task. Taylor suggested for
adoption of a scientific approach for fatigue study in a business organization instead of using rule
of thumb.
For Example, in case of a manufacturing company, workers are to work in number of shifts.
Each and every worker is to perform in all the shifts. In this process, they require breaks from
time to time during the work in order to ensure smooth flow of work. This time gap in between
work is to be recorded effectively in the management.
Differential Piece Wage Rate System
It is a scientific technique used to determine piece rate wage for both efficient and inefficient
workers in an organization. This technique also helps in rewarding the efficient employees in the
form of extra remuneration. This extra wages work as a strong motivational factor for the
workers. It attracts inefficient workers to work more for getting extra money. A high level of
compensation package boosts the moral of the employee which ultimately affects the production
efficiency of the business firm. Taylor suggested implementing a fair piece wage rate system to
for the employees to produce more and achieve the organizational objectives.
For Example, in a company, the standard output fixed to be produced per day of 08 hours is 100
units and minimum standard rate is Rs 60 per unit. There is a provision of paying Rs 70 per unit
for the workers who is producing 100 or more than 100 units in a day. A and B are working in
the company as workers. A produces 120 units per day whereas B produces 90 units.
From the above, it will be clear that the efficient workers will get more wages than that of
inefficient employees in the same organization. It motivates the inefficient workers to work more
to get that extra wages.
At present, there are different types of scientific techniques developed for applied in the business
houses. Some of these techniques are as follows:
Just in time management refers as management of inventory related with reduction of stock of
work in progress in a business firm. This technique also deals with cost control and developing
investment pattern. In this process different types of visual signals are utilized to implement
business strategies and polices for meeting various needs of production.
Lean Manufacturing
Kaizen
The word ‘Kaizen’ means improvement or change for better and this technique is focused on
improvement of productivity. The primary purpose of Kaizen is to reduce waste, providing
delivery of the products in time as specified.
Six Sigma
It is a tool used for enhancing the efficiency level in an organization by reducing quality
variations.
Operations Research
F.W.Taylor and Henri Fayol both have contributed significantly in the field of management.
Principles developed by Taylor and Fayol are complimentary to each other. An attempt is made
to differentiate in between their contributions.
Meaning
Management principles may be defined as broad and genuine guidelines works as a basis for
taking various managerial decisions and behaviours in a business enterprise.
Nature
1. Universal Application
2. Basic Guidelines
3. Framed or Designed on the basis of rigorous practice and experiments
4. Flexibility
5. Affecting or influencing human behaviour
6. Cause & Effect Relationship
7. Depending upon condition
Significance
1) Division of Work: It refers to dividing the entire work in to small units to develop
specialization.
2) Parity in between Authority and Responsibility: Making balance between authority and
responsibility
3) Discipline: It refers to the basic rules, regulations, terms, conditions and the process of
working in an organization.
4) Unity of Command: Receiving orders or instructions from a single authority
5) Unity of Direction: Unity of Direction is the principle suggested for ‘One Plan for One
Unit’.
6) Subordination of Individuals interest to General Interest: group interest or organizational
interest should be given priority over that of individual ones.
7) Fair Remuneration to employees: Payment of wages or remunerations should be fair.
8) Centralization and Decentralization: Utilization of both centralization and decentralization
at different levels of management.
9) Scalar Chain: Line of authority to be maintained in a business concern
10) Principle of Order: It refers to orderly use of resources of an organization like men and
materials.
11) Principle of Equity: Kind, fair and just treatment to the employees in the business.
12) Initiative: Accepting suggestions from the employees at time.
13) Espirit de Corps: working in the organization as a Team.
(a) Based on Science, not merely rule of thumb: Management decisions should be made on
the basis of scientific techniques and should free from personal bias of managers.
(b) Harmony, not discord: Team work with utmost trust, good faith and proper coordination.
(c) Cooperation and not individualism: Workers and management have to work with mutual
understanding and cooperation with each other.
(d) Development of all the employees in an organization: Work towards overall development
of the workers in the business.
Management principles developed by Taylor and Fayol can be differentiated on the basis of
various points i.e. perspective, focus, contribution, personality, unity of command, unity of
direction, expression and applicability.
Objective Type Questions/MCQs
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
Multiple Choice Questions
11. Which of the following does not follow the scalar chain?
a. Functional Structure
b. Divisional Structure
c. Formal Organization
d. Informal Organization
List – I List – II
a. Traditional Management 1. F.W.Taylor
b. Unity of Direction 2. Scientific Management Principle
c. Harmony, not discord 3. Henri Fayol
d. Scientific Management 4. Management Principle
Code:
(A) 1 2 3 4
(B) 3 1 4 2
(C) 4 1 2 3
(D) 3 4 1 2
List – I List – II
a. Instruction Card Clerk 1. Set up the sequence for completion of the jobs
b. Route Clerk 2. Fixing the time of start and completion of jobs
c. Time and Cost Clerk 3. Maintains discipline
d. Disciplinarian 4. Providing instructions to the workers
Code:
(A) 2 3 4 1
(B) 3 1 4 2
(C) 4 1 2 3
(D) 3 4 2 1
List – I List – II
a. Speed Boss 1. Handling Machines in Factory
b. Gang Boss 2. Responsible for quality control
c. Repair Boss 3. Responsible for Job Completion within time
d. Inspector 4. Repair & maintenance of machines
Code:
(A) 2 3 4 1
(B) 3 1 4 2
(C) 2 1 4 3
(D) 4 3 2 1
List – I List – II
a. Time Study 1. Identify the number and frequency of break during work
b. Motion Study 2. Determine standard time
c. Fatigue Study 3. Exploring the suitable method for performing several tasks
d. Method Study 4. Recording the movements of the workers
Code:
(A) 2 4 1 3
(B) 1 2 3 4
(C) 4 2 3 1
(D) 1 3 4 2
List – I List – II
a. Division of Work 1. One Plan for One Unit
b. Unity of Command 2. Kind, fair and just treatment to the employees
c. Unity of Direction 3. Receiving orders from a single authority
d. Principle of Equity 4. Dividing the entire work in to small units
Code:
(A) 3 1 4 2
(B) 1 2 3 4
(C) 4 2 3 1
(D) 4 3 1 2
Answer:
1. True, 2. False, 3. False, 4. False, 5. True, 6. True, 7. False, 8. False, 9. False, 10. True, 11.
False, 12. True, 13. False, 14. False, 15. False.
Answers:
1. Experimentation, 2. Henri Fayol, 3. Authority, 4. Discipline, 5. One Plan for One Unit, 6.
Centralization, 7. Decentralization, 8. Scalar Chain, 9. Gang Plank, 10. Equity, 11.
Initiative, 12. Harmony, 13. Scientific, 14. Foreman, 15. Time Study.
Division of labour refers to dividing the work or job into tasks and sub-tasks and allotting each
sub- task to an individual worker and each individual worker has the narrow task and does the
same work again and again.
Span of control or management refers to the number of subordinates a supervisor can supervise
or manage or control the subordinates effectively and if the span is narrow, there would be a
large number of supervisors, and a large number of hierarchies.
Division of work refers that work should be divided among individuals and groups to ensure that
effort and attention are focused on special portions of the task.
Discipline refers to obedience, respect of authority and observance of the established rules which
is in essence obedience, application, energy, behavior and outward marks respect observed in
accordance with the standing agreements between the firm and its employees.
This principle of delegation suggests that everyone should have only one boss.
This principle suggests that there should be one head and one plan for a group of activities
having the same objective.
The principle of order implies man in the right job and right material in the right place.
Initiative implies the power of thinking out a plan and ensuring its successful implementation
and a powerful motivation of human behavior and a source of strength for the organization.
This principle of management implies that there should be cooperation and team work among the
members of the organization which refers to spirit of loyalty and devotion to the group to which
one belongs.
Scalar chain refers to the superior ranging of the ultimate authority to the lowest ranks.
It implies the power of thinking out a plan and ensuring its successful implementation.
The study of the movement of operations of a worker is known as the motion study.
Gang boss is to assemble and set up various equipments and tools to enable the workers to begin
their work immediately after entering the shop.
Speed boss is to ensure regular cleaning, servicing and repair of machines to keep them in
efficient working paper.
Repair boss is to ensure that machines are run at their optimum desired speed.
Inspector is to ensure that the workmen do the work of the quality and the jobs are executed as
per specifications.
20. Define the concept of Standardization.
Standardization means setting standards for different factors like performance of workers, raw
materials, machines, tools, conditions of work, techniques, weights, measures, quality etc.
Fatigue study is the study made in order to decide about the frequency, duration and number of
rest pauses in an organization during the working hours.
Work study is the detailed analysis of an activity with an objective to remake inefficiency and
find out best way of performing it.
Case Problem – 01
‘F’ Limited was engaged in the business of food processing and selling its products under a
popular brand. Lately the business was expanding due to good quantity and reasonable
prices. Also with more people working the market for processed food was increasing. New
players were also coming to cash in on the new trend. In order to keep its market share in
the short run in the company directed its existing workforce to work overtime.
But this resulted in many problems. Due to increased pressure of work the efficiency of the
workers declined. Sometimes the subordinates had to work for more than one superior
resulting in declining efficiency. The divisions that were previously working on one product
were also made to work on two or more products. This resulted in a lot of overlapping and
wastage. The workers were becoming undisciplined. The spirit of teamwork, which had
characterized the company, previously was beginning to wane. Workers were feeling
cheated and imitative was declining. The quality of the products was beginning to decline
and market share was on the verge of decrease.
Actually the company had implemented changes without creating the required
infrastructure.
Questions
1. Identify the Principles of Management (out of 14 given by Henry Fayol) that were being
violated by the company.
2. Explain these principles in brief.
3. What steps should the company management take in relation to the above principles to
restore the company to its past glory?
Suggested Answer
1. The following principles of management suggested by the Henry Fayol have been violated.
i) Division of work
ii) Unity of Command
iii) Unity of Direction
iv) Discipline
v) Team Spirit or Espirit De Corps
vi) Initiative
vii) Remuneration of Employees
i) Division of Work: It refers to dividing the entire work in to small units to develop
specialization.
ii) Discipline: It refers to the basic rules, regulations, terms, conditions and the process of
working in an organization.
iii) Unity of Command: Receiving orders or instructions from a single authority
iv) Unity of Direction: Unity of Direction is the principle suggested for ‘One Plan for One
Unit’.
v) Fair Remuneration to employees: Payment of wages or remunerations should be fair.
vi) Initiative: Accepting suggestions from the employees at time.
vii) Espirit de Corps: working in the organization as a Team.
3. The following steps should have been taken by the management to restore its past glory:
Review Exercises
1. Name the principle of scientific management which emphasizes on study and analysis of
methods rather than estimation. [CBSE (D) 2011C]
2. Explain how principles of management: [CBSE (A.I.) 2012]
a. help in optimum utilization of resources and effective administration, and
b. help the managers in meeting changing environment requirements.
3. Explain how principles of management: [CBSE (D) 2012]
a. provide useful insight into reality and
b. help in thoughtful decision making
4. Explain how principles of management: [CBSE (F) 2012]
a. help in optimum utilization of resources and effective administration, and
b. help in thoughtful decision making.
5. Name and explain the principle of management according to which a manager should replace
‘I’ with ‘We’ in all this conversation with the workers. [CBSE (D) 2013]
6. Explain ‘Harmony not Discord’ on a Principle of Scientific Management. [CBSE (D) 2013]
7. Explain ‘Science Not Rule of Thumb’ as a principle of scientific management. [CBSE (D)
2013]
8. Explain ‘Co-operation, Not Individualism’ as a principle of scientific management. [CBSE
(D) 2013]
1. Explain that technique of scientific management which is he strongest motivator for a worker
to reach standard performance. [CBSE (A.I.) 2012]
2. Explain the technique of scientific management that is the extension of “Principle of Division
of Work and Specialization”. [CBSE (D) 2012]
3. Explain the technique of scientific management which separates the planning and execution
work. [CBSE (F) 2012]
4. Explain the technique of “Simplification and Standardization of Work” given by Taylor.
[CBSE (D) 2012C]
5. State any four features of ‘Principles of Management’. [CBSE 2015]
6. What is meant by principles of management? State any three points of their importance.
[CBSE 2015]
6. Explain any two of the following Fayol’s principles of management with examples:
(i) Unity of Direction, (ii) Equity, (iii) Espirit De Corps, (iv) Initiative [CBSE (D) 2008C, 2009]
9. (i) Name and explain the principle of management which requires judicious application of
penalties by the management.
(ii) Name and explain the technique of scientific management which helps in establishing
interchangeability of manufactured parts and products. [CBSE (D) 2010]
10.
i) Name and explain the principle of management in which workers should be encouraged
to develop and carry out their plans for improvements in the organization.
ii) Name and explain the technique of scientific management which helps in eliminating
unnecessary diversity of products and thus results in saving cost. [CBSE (D) 2010]
11. Explain any five characteristics which reflect the nature of Principles of Management.
[CBSE (D) 2010C]
12. Explain by giving any five reasons why Principles of Management. [CBSE (D) 2010C]
13. Explain “Fayol’s principles of ‘equity’ and ‘order’ with examples. [CBSE (A.I.) 2011]
14. Explain the following principles of Fayol with the help of one example for each:
a. Discipline
b. Unity of Command [CBSE (D) 2011C]
15. Explain the following principles of Fayol with the help of one example for each:
a. Scalar Chain
b. Stability of tenure of personnel [CBSE (D) 2011C]
16. Explain any five features of Principles of Management. [CBSE (D) 2012C]
a. Motion Study
b. Time Study
17. Nikita and Salman completed their MBA and started working in a multi-national company at
the same level. Both are working hard and are happy with their employer. Salman had the
habit of backbiting and wrong reporting about his colleagues to impress his boss. All the
employees in the organization knew about it. At the time of performance appraisal the
performance of Nikita was judged better than Salman. Even then their boss Mohammed
Sharif decided to promote Salman stating that being a female Nikita will not be able to
handle the complications of a higher post.
i) Identify and explain the principle of management which was not followed by the multi-
national company.
ii) Identify the values which are being ignored quoting the lines from the above para.
18. Namita and Aslam completed their MBA and started working in a multi-national company at
the same level. Both are working hard and are happy with their employer. Aslam had the
habit of backbiting and wrong reporting about his colleagues to impress his boss. all the
employees in the organization knew about it. At the time of performance appraisal the
performance of Namita was judged better than Aslam. Even then their boss, Saleem Khan
decided to promote Aslam stating that being a female Namita will not be able to handle the
complications of a higher post.
(i) Identify and explain the principle of management which was not followed by this
multinational company.
(ii) Identify the values which are being ignored quoting the lines from the above para.
22. ‘Aapka Vidyalay’ believes in holistic development of students and encourages team building
through a mix of curricular, co-curricular and sports activities. On its founders day a stage
performance had to be put up. A committee of ten perfects was constituted to plan different
aspects of the function. They all decided to use recycled paper for decoration. There was a
spirit of unity and harmony and all members supported each other. With mutual trust and
belongingness the programme was systematically planned and executed. Kartik, one of the
perfects realized that unknowingly the group had applied one of the principles of
management while planning and executing the programme. He was so inspired by the
success of the function that he asked his father to apply the same principle in his business.
His father replied that he was already using this principle.
(a) Identify the principle of management applied for the success of the programme.
(b) State any two features of management highlighted in the above para.
(c) Identify any two values which ‘Aapka Vidyalay’ communicated to the society. [CBSE
2015]