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Classical Theories of Organization

Classical organization theories are based on traditional thinking.  These theories were first propounded in the beginning of 19th century and incorporated original and initial ideas of management.  The classical theories of organization were devoted mainly to the superior’s authority, objectives, rules and economic activities.  The classical organization theories are broadly divided into Bureaucracy, Scientific management and Process management.

Bureaucracy

The bureaucratic model developed because some people wanted to dominate others in business and other activities.  They organized men and materials for achieving objectives for their personal benefits.  This theory was given a formal shape by a German Sociologist, Max Weber, who believed that bureaucracy was an ideal weapon to harness human and physical resources.  It is a formative model of organization characterized by a large and complex atmosphere with impersonal detachment from human resources.  Rules, regulations, rigid hierarchy and specialized functions are important feature of bureaucracy.  It is the epitome of structural relationship to control.

Scientific Management

The scientific management theory was propounded by F.W. Taylor and was carried out by Frank and Lillian Gilbreth, Henry L. Gantt and Emerson.  Taylor postulated that management was haphazard and inefficient at the time.  The management was based purely on individuals’ capacity.  The personal talent of the manager guided the workers who were motivated by bonus and monetary benefits.  F.W. Taylor therefore tried to find out the basic principles of management by using time and work study, detailed analysis, investigation and planning of work allocation.  It is known as scientific management because systematized knowledge is used for work allocation and assignment of specific jobs.  The salary, wages, etc. are to be decided as per the work performance of individuals.  It revolutionized the entire shop or plant management.  Industrial engineering and management was promoted by Taylor.  He said that scientific management tries to perform the job in the best way.

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