Management Theory

Over the years, there have been many studies conducted in the hopes of defining and logically explaining the definition of scientific management. The purpose of these studies has been mainly to assist managers in their role of getting the most production out of their employees in an efficient and cost-effective manner. As Frederick Taylor (1911) put it, “Scientific management fundamentally consists of certain broad general principles, a certain philosophy, which can be applied in many ways.” (p. 13). I believe that scientific management is only achieved when the management of a firm takes the time to analyze its internal philosophy and apply the appropriate policies and procedures that will enable the staff to increase productivity as well as enhancing its employee’s desires to improve their own work performance. It is my viewpoint that the company I currently work for, Angelus Sanitary Can Machine Company (ASCMC) could greatly benefit from some of the theories of scientific management.

It has been said that “The principal object of management should be to secure the maximum prosperity for the employer, coupled with the maximum prosperity for each employee,” (Taylor, 1911, p. 5). That has never seemed to be the case since I have worked at ASCMC. To the contrary, the company seemingly has little interest in making its employees prosperous and in fact, the prosperity of the company seems to be an after-thought as well. This is evidenced in the manner of which the company indulges on unnecessary extras and lavish vacations for the officers of the company, but nickel and dimes the working staff when they need to travel for business purposes.

When production levels fell, there seemed to be no sense of urgency from management or staff to analyze why. The staff seemed to covet any additional overtime as it is the only monetary incentive provided by the company. Upper management itself appeared to not be concerned with such things as profits and production time as long as they still received their comfortable wages and were afforded their luxurious perks and fringe benefits. It is most assuredly true that ASCMC could benefit greatly from a more formal use of scientific management as well as some lessons in leadership.

In order to obtain prosperity for both the employer and employee, it is up to the managers to act as the leaders of the company and encourage the employees to believe in what the goals of the firm are.