The classical theories of organizations: Taylor, Fayol, Weber, and Ford
Frederick Taylor
Frederick Taylor is considered the founder of the scientific theory of organization. This theory emphasizes efficiency and productivity by optimizing working methods. He advocates for a rigorous division of labor, task specialization, and the application of scientific methods to improve production processes. Taylor also introduces the concept of performance-based pay to encourage workers to maximize their productivity.
Definition
Scientific theory of organization
Objective to achieve:
• Seek maximum productivity
The scientific theory of organization, developed by Frederick Taylor, aims to improve efficiency by applying scientific methods to study, analyze, and optimize work processes. It is based on the following principles:
- Division of labor and task specialization: each employee specializes in a specific task, which allows for better mastery and increased productivity.
- Application of scientific methods: Taylor recommends using observation, analysis, and experimentation to identify the best working methods.
- Performance-based pay: workers are rewarded based on their productivity, which encourages them to work more efficiently. This approach fosters motivation and skill development.
Consequences:
Increased productivity and output
2. Transformation of workers' conditions
3. Reduction of production costs
4. Emergence of supervisory staff and specialized workers
Henri Fayol
Objective to achieve:
• Seek maximum productivity
The effectiveness of administrative function depends on certain principles which are:
• Unity of command/direction
• Division of labor
• Principle of discipline/authority
• Clarity of hierarchy
• Sense of spirit
• Fair remuneration system
Taylor for the workshop (study of work from the worker’s position). Fayol for general management (study of work from the management position) This view allows for the removal of their oppositions. They often agree: on high salaries, on selection, on training, against unions.
Differences with TAYLOR (between work situations): Their thoughts diverge, because the conditions under which they work are different. One recommends going through the team leader. The other is against close control of work. They oppose each other on functional direction. They also oppose each other on management criteria. Taylor favors direct productivity. Fayol always calculates the cost price. These two engineers approach industrial issues with the same determination to innovate, relying on the scientific method. However, their thoughts will diverge, because the conditions in which they work are different.
Definition
Basic management functions according to Fayol
According to Henri Fayol, management is based on five basic functions:
- Planning: defining objectives, developing strategies, and establishing the necessary action plans to achieve them.
- Organizing: allocating resources and responsibilities optimally to ensure a clear organizational structure.
- Coordinating: ensuring that different parts of the organization work together harmoniously and effectively.
- Commanding: leading and motivating employees to achieve set objectives.
- Controlling: evaluating results and performance, and taking corrective actions if necessary.
Max Weber
3 types of authority: •Charismatic authority •Traditional authority •Bureaucratic authority
Definition
Principles of bureaucracy according to Weber
Max Weber proposes the following principles to optimize the organization of a bureaucracy:
- Division of labor: each member of the organization has clearly defined and specialized tasks.
- Hierarchy: a hierarchical structure ensures a clear distribution of responsibilities and decision-making prerogatives.
- Rules and procedures: formal rules and procedures are established to guide the actions of organization members.
- Merit-based selection and promotion: members are recruited and promoted based on their skills and performance.
- Impersonality: decisions and actions are based on objective criteria, independent of personal preferences.
- Written documentation: rules, decisions, and actions are recorded in writing to ensure transparency and cohesion within the organization.
Henry Ford
mass production
3 major innovations:
1. From a technical standpoint: Assembly line
2. From an economic standpoint: Standardization of product
3. From a social standpoint: High wage policy
Definition
The assembly line and remuneration at Henry Ford
Taylor's principles:
- Mass production of undifferentiated products to achieve economies of scale.
- Assembly line: the product moves along a production line.
- Horizontal specialization: the production process is divided into elementary tasks.
Key points:
Summary
The classical theories of organizations, such as those of Taylor, Fayol, Weber, and Ford, have all contributed to the understanding and improvement of work organization and management. Taylor's scientific theory emphasizes efficiency and the optimization of work processes, while Fayol highlights the five basic functions of management. Weber proposes bureaucracy as an effective organizational structure, while Ford introduces the assembly line to increase productivity. These theories continue to influence modern management practice and provide important insights for today's organizations.
