The Ideas of Frederick W. Taylor: An Evaluation
Abstract
The ideas and techniques of Frederick W. Taylor, the founder of Scientific Management, were examined with respect to their validity and their degree of acceptance in modern management. With respect to the principle of scientific decision-making and techniques such as: time and motion study, standardization, goal setting with feedback, money as a motivator, management responsibility for training, scientific selection, the shortened work week and rest pauses, Taylor's views were fundamentally correct and have been generally accepted. With respect to individualized work and the principle of labor- management cooperation, his views were probably only partially correct and have been only partially accepted. Criticisms of Taylor with respect to his alleged: inadequate view of motivation, ignorance of social factors, authoritarianism, treatment of men as machines, exploitation of workers, anti-unionism, and personal dishonesty are predominantly or wholly false. The accusation concerning over-specialization is only partially justified. Generally Taylor's contributions and his genius have not been understood or appreciated by contemporary writers.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Aug 01, 1980
- Accession Number
- ADA088147
Entities
People
- Edwin A. Locke
Organizations
- University of Maryland