Evolution of Management Theory Quiz

Management Approaches

• The human relations movement provided key insights that employees are not just motivated by economic factors, but also by social and psychological needs.
• The behavioural science approach focuses on understanding individuals and groups within organizations, with a primary goal of improving organizational performance.

Origins of Management Thought

• The field of behavioural science and the study of organizational behaviour emerged in the early 20th century.
• The Classical Approach is the oldest formal approach to management thought.
• Management approaches are based on different perspectives and theories about how organizations should be managed.

Classical Approach

• The Classical Approach generally concerns the efficient management of organizations through the application of scientific principles and techniques.
• The primary goal of Frederick Winslow Taylor's Scientific Management approach was to improve industrial efficiency by scientifically analyzing and optimizing workflows.
• The key components of the scientific method as described by Taylor include the use of observation, measurement, and experimentation to improve work processes.
• According to Taylor, management and workers should have a collaborative relationship, with management providing guidance and workers completing tasks.
• The primary focus of Administrative Management, compared to Scientific Management, is on the overall organization rather than individual tasks.

Human Relations Movement

• The Hawthorne Experiments, led by Elton Mayo, began in 1927 and concluded that social factors, such as employee satisfaction and teamwork, can significantly impact productivity.
• One of the major conclusions drawn from the Hawthorne studies is that workers' attitudes and feelings can influence their productivity and job satisfaction.

Contingency Approach

• The key focus of the Contingency Approach within the Behavioral Approach is on understanding how different managerial styles and techniques can be applied in different situations to achieve organizational goals.
• Managers use situational variables, such as leadership style, task structure, and follower maturity, to understand employee behavior within the Contingency Approach.
• The primary goal of Situational Leadership within the Contingency Approach is to adapt leadership style to the specific needs and capabilities of employees.
• The Contingency Approach represents a shift away from universal principles of management towards a more flexible and adaptable approach.