Highlights of Different Theories in Management

M anagement , as old as human kind, plays a fundamental role in imposing stances for a controlled and ordered communities since it existed and realized by managers. Society and other Organizations of today’s time would be different and far from what it has improved if not with the help of managers notched the important points of management directing a purpose and combining resources to produce a desired goal and betterment of the whole. Six Theories of Management with Modern Management Practices Theories of management are very important for any business and organization. The experts have presented different management theories for the successful running of organization. These ideas are called as six theories of management.

  A theory that analyzes and synthesizes workflows. Its main objective is improving economic efficiency, especially labor productivity particularly in professional, office based environments. This theory was presented by Frederick Winslow Taylor. He gave the idea to run the organization in scientific way. The Principles of this theory are: (1) Science , Not Rule of Thumb : We should not get stuck in a set routine with the old techniques of doing work, rather we should be constantly experimenting to develop new techniques which make the work much simpler, easier and quicker . (2) Harmony, Not Discord : Such an atmosphere should be created in the organization that labour (the major factor of production) and management consider each other indispensable . Taylor has referred to such a situation as a ‘Mental Revolution’. Taylor firmly believed that the occurrence of a mental revolution would end all conflicts between the two parties and would be beneficial to both of them. (3

 A theory that attempts to find a rational way to design an organization as a whole. It generally calls for a formalized  administrative  structure, a clear division of labor, and delegation of power and authority to administrators relevant to their areas of responsibilities . This theory was presented by Henri Fayol. He focused his attention on manager rather than worker. He emphasized the training of the managers for improving an organization. He defined administration in terms of five functions which are planning , organizing , commanding, coordinating and controlling . Fayol’s 14 Principles of Management 1. Division of Labor , The more people specialize, the more efficiently they can perform their work. The principle is epitomized by the modern assembly line. 2. Authority , Managers must give orders so that they can get things done. While their formal authority gives them the right to command, managers will not always compel obedience unless they have personal authority (

  A theory that is often called the  human relations movement   because it addresses the human dimension of work. Behavioral theorists believed that a better understanding of human behavior at work, such as motivation, conflict, expectations, and group dynamics, improved productivity.   This theory was put forward by Elton Mayo. He was of the view that production depends on the way people are treated. He focused on five concepts as under: 1. Morale 2. Group dynamics 3. Democratic supervision 4. Personal relations 5. Behavioural concept of Motivation

  A theory of two essential elements . First, it entails structuring an organization into a hierarchy. Secondly, the organization and its members are governed by clearly defined rational-legal decision-making rules .   This theory was advocated by Max Weber. He focused on the structure of organization. He considered that highest degree of efficiency can be attained through this approach. By using this approach it is possible to take control over human beings. Its characteristics are: 1. There is the rigidity of official behaviour 2. There is resistance to the adoption of innovations and change 3. There is rigidity of rules and regulations 4. The decision is taken by a hierarchy of officers and officials; 5. There is the leveling of talent. This scheme tends to reduce the performance of bright workers to the level of mediocrity 6. The consequence is the ‘red tape7 which is never in the straight line. All feel entrapped and helpless.

             ‘X’ Theory of Management by Douglas McGregor , A theory that focuses on negative assumptions that  managers   make about their people – if he/she dislikes work, have little ambition, and who is unwilling to take responsibility. Its basic assumptions are given below: 1. The average human being has an inherent dislike of work 2. The average human being avoids work if he can 3. Because of the human characteristics of dislike of work, there arises the need for control and direction of individuals. The individuals are threatened with punishment to get them to put forth adequate effort for the achievement of objectives of an organization. 4. The average human being wants security ‘ Y’ Theory of Management by Douglas McGregor, A theory that focuses on positive assumptions that  managers  make about their people – if he/she is self-motivated and enjoys the challenge of work. Its basic assumptions are given below: 1. The average human being does not inherently d