Classical Management Theory: 1) The Different Management Theories
Classical Management Theory: 1) The Different Management Theories
c) Bureaucracy Theory
Bureaucracy Theory promotes reason to guide management decisions, rather than charisma or nepotism.
Developed by sociologist Max Weber, this theory emphasizes formal authority systems. Unity and the
authority of organizational hierarchies are central to Bureaucracy Theory.
a) Quantitative Theory
Quantitative Theory arose out of the need for managerial efficiency during World War II. It was developed
using experts from multiple scientific disciplines to solve the issues around integrating systems of people,
materials and systems. This theory was developed primarily to enhance and support military
decision-making.
b) Systems Theory
Systems Theory views management as an interrelated component of the organization. Instead of viewing
the organization as a series of silos, each department is part of an overall system or organism.
Management must support goals and process flows that serve the overall organizational health.
1. Division of Work – Henri believed that segregating work in the workforce amongst the workers
will enhance the quality of the product. Similarly, he also concluded that the division of work
improves the productivity, efficiency, accuracy and speed of the workers. This principle is appropriate
for both the managerial as well as a technical work level.
2. Authority and Responsibility – These are the two key aspects of management. Authority
facilitates the management to work efficiently, and responsibility makes them responsible for the
work done under their guidance or leadership.
3. Discipline – Without discipline, nothing can be accomplished. It is the core value for any project
or any management. Good performance and sensible interrelation make the management job easy
and comprehensive. Employees’ good behavior also helps them smoothly build and progress in their
professional careers.
4. Unity of Command – This means an employee should have only one boss and follow his
command. If an employee has to follow more than one boss, there begins a conflict of interest and
can create confusion.
5. Unity of Direction – Whoever is engaged in the same activity should have a unified goal. This
means all the people working in a company should have one goal and motive which will make the
work easier and achieve the set goal easily.
6. Subordination of Individual Interest – This indicates a company should work unitedly towards
the interest of a company rather than personal interest. Be subordinate to the purposes of an
organization. This refers to the whole chain of command in a company.
8. Centralization – In any company, the management or any authority responsible for the
decision-making process should be neutral. However, this depends on the size of an organization.
Henri Fayol stressed on the point that there should be a balance between the hierarchy and division
of power.
9. Scalar Chain – Fayol, on this principle, highlights that the hierarchy steps should be from the top
to the lowest. This is necessary so that every employee knows their immediate senior also they
should be able to contact any, if needed.
10. Order – A company should maintain a well-defined work order to have a favorable work culture.
The positive atmosphere in the workplace will boost more positive productivity.
11. Equity – All employees should be treated equally and respectfully. It’s the responsibility of a
manager that no employees face discrimination.
12. Stability – An employee delivers the best if they feel secure in their job. It is the duty of the
management to offer job security to their employees.
13. Initiative – The management should support and encourage the employees to take initiatives in
an organization. It will help them to increase their motivation and morale.
14. Esprit de Corps – It is the responsibility of the management to motivate their employees and be
supportive of each other regularly. Developing trust and mutual understanding will lead to a positive
outcome and work environment.
Many studies indicated that Management theory evolved with "scientific" and "bureaucratic" management
that used measurement, procedures and routines as the basis for operations. Firms developed
hierarchies to apply standardized rules to the place of work and penalized labour for violating rules.
Management theories help organizations to focus, communicate, and evolve. Using management theory
in the workplace allows leadership to focus on their main goals. When a management style or theory is
implemented, it automatically streamlines the top priorities for the organization. Management theory also
allows us to better communicate with people we work with which in turn allows us to work more efficiently.
By understanding management theory, basic assumptions about management styles and goals can be
assumed and can save time during daily interactions and meetings within an organization.