Introduction
Organizational management is the study of the ways in which people within organizations interact with and respond to their external environment. It involves the study of how organizations use and manage the resources, tools and practices that influence the processes and operations of the organization. Many different management philosophies have been developed over the years, with each offering its own unique perspective on how to best manage an organization. In this essay, we look at four of the major organizational management philosophies – Scientific Management, Human Relations Theory, Bureaucracy and Systems theory.
Scientific Management
Scientific management is a theory of management that was developed by Frederick Winslow Taylor in the early 20th century. The goal of scientific management is to help increase a companys efficiency and productivity by using scientific methods to study and control the production process. The core principle of this theory is to replace the guesswork of workers with the use of scientific methods to plan and control the efficiency of the production process. This is done by closely examining every aspect of production and making use of specialized techniques to ensure that work is carried out optimally and with the least possible effort.
One key element of scientific management is the use of time and motion studies to analyze the most efficient way of working. In this way, workers can maximize their use of energy, reducing the amount of time taken to perform a task. Scientific management principles have been applied to various industries, from mass production to financial services.
Human Relations Theory
The Human Relations Theory was developed by Elton Mayo in the 1930s as a result of his own research into worker productivity. Mayos theory was based on the idea that employees are not simply economic factors, but also social and psychological entities with needs, emotions and desires which must be taken into account in the work setting. Thus, his approach outlined how to motivate workers and increase their commitment to the organization by addressing their emotional and psychological needs.
Mayos theories are based on the idea that workers are more productive in a situation where they are treated as individuals and given recognition and respect. The primary focus of this theory is to make sure that workers feel a sense of belonging and identity within the organization, which in turn will lead to increased job satisfaction and productive output.
Bureaucracy
Bureaucracy is a form of organizational management which is based on the principles of order and hierarchy. This form of management is based on the idea that organizations should be structured in such a way that people can easily be managed and directed. It involves assigning tasks to individuals and groups according to their level of expertise and authority. In this way, tasks can be performed efficiently and managers can keep control over the progress of the organization.
Bureaucratic organizations are highly structured, with a strict chain of command that makes it difficult for individuals to take initiative. This form of management is unsuited to organizations that require flexibility and innovation, however it is ideal for businesses which need to operate swiftly and effectively.
Systems Theory
Systems theory is an approach to organizational management which focuses on how organizations act as complex systems. This approach is based on the idea that organizations are made up of multiple interrelated elements which influence and affect each other. It argues that the various parts of an organization interact to form a system which is greater than the sum of its parts, and that this system must be understood in order to be managed effectively.
Systems theory views organizations from a holistic perspective, focusing on the whole and its parts, rather than individual elements in isolation. This approach enables managers to see the bigger picture and understand how the various elements of the organization fit together and interact to shape the overall performance of the organization.
Conclusion
Organizational management is a complex field which involves the use of many different theories and approaches. The four management philosophies discussed in this essay – Scientific Management, Human Relations Theory, Bureaucracy and Systems Theory – each provide a unique perspective on how to best manage an organization. It is up to the manager to choose which approach is the most effective for their organization, taking into account the specific circumstances and needs of their organization. Ultimately, the objective is to manage an organization in the most efficient and productive way possible. By taking into account the principles and theories outlined above, managers can find the best way to achieve this aim.
