Industrial Psychology: Organizational Theory

Questions and Answers

What does the Scalar Principle deal with?

Accountability of subordinates

Vertical growth and chain of command (correct)

Division of labor

Management efficiency

According to the Span-of-Control Principle, larger spans of control produce taller organizational structures.

False

Who is associated with Scientific Management?

Frederick Taylor

The concept of division of labor is referred to as the ______ Principle.

Functional Signup and view all the answers

Match the following principles to their descriptions:

Scalar Principle = Concerned with the chain of command Span-of-Control Principle = Number of subordinates a manager supervises Functional Principle = Division of labor into specialized units Classical Organizational Theory = Organizations exist for economic reasons Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary focus of Classical Organizational Theory?

Increasing productivity through efficient structure Signup and view all the answers

What does Taylorism suggest regarding work?

There is one best way to get the job done. Signup and view all the answers

According to Classical Organizational Theory, people's capabilities should not be developed through training.

False Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Industrial Psychology Overview

Industrial psychology focuses on the behavior of individuals and groups within organizational contexts.
It seeks to improve productivity, enhance employee satisfaction, and optimize workplace environments.

Organizational Theory

Scalar Principle: Refers to vertical growth in organizations and the chain of command.
- Unity of command stipulates each subordinate should report to one superior for accountability.
Line/Staff Principle:
- Line Functions: Directly responsible for achieving main organizational goals (e.g., production department).
- Staff Functions: Provide support to line functions, considered less critical.
Span-Of-Control Principle:
- Defines the number of subordinates a manager supervises.
- A large span results in flat organization structures; a small span leads to taller organizations.

Classical Organizational Theory

Organizations are created for economic efficiency and productivity.
Emphasizes:
- System of Differentiated Activities: Linked activities essential for organization function.
- People: Perform roles with authority in pursuit of goals.
- Cooperation: Necessary for achieving common objectives.
- Authority: Critical for ensuring coordinated goal-directed efforts.
Assumes there is an optimal organizational structure to achieve goals.
Advocates for scientific analysis to identify the best methods for organization and productivity enhancements.

Scientific Management (Frederick Taylor)

Organizations viewed as machines focused on efficiency.
Introduced scientific principles to analyze work behavior, aiming to enhance worker productivity through:
- Planning work processes.
- Advocating for standardization, specialization, and simplification of tasks.
Key Principles:
- Productivity gains should benefit workers.
- Elimination of physical stress and anxiety in the workplace.
- Development of worker capabilities via training.
Promotes the idea that rational economic principles guide both individual and organizational behavior.
Advocated for data-driven management where workers contribute insights into job tasks and duties.

Functional Principle

Organizations should be structured into specialized units performing similar functions to enhance efficiency.
Emphasizes the critical role of scientific selection, data collection, and targeted training to boost worker productivity.