Question

Karan Nath took over'D'north Mojor Company' from his ailing father three months ago. In the past, the company was not performing well. Karan was determined to improve the company's performance. He observed that the methods of production as well as selection of employees in the company were not scientific. He believed that there was only one best method to maximise efficiency. He also felt that once the method is developed, the workers of the company should be trained to learn that'best method'. He asked the Production Manager to develop the best method and carry out the necessary training. The Production Manager developed this method using several parameters right from deciding the sequence of operations, place for men, machines and raw materials till the delivery of the product to the customers. This method was implemented throughout the organisation. It helped in increasing the output, improving the quality and reducing the cost and wastage. 

Identify and explain the principles and the technique of scientific management followed by the Production Manager in the above case.

Answer 1

Principles of scientific management followed by production Manager in above case are: 

(a) Science not Rule of Thumb: It means a use of a logical and scientific method for taking decisions instead of instinct. According to Taylor, for every work, there is only one method of doing it, which can be ascertained by logic and not with the help of hit and trial method. This helps in saving time and increasing efficiency to a large extent.

(b) Development of each and every person to his or her greatest efficiency and prosperity: 

(i) This principle stands for the development of workers through training in order to learn the best method developed through the use of the scientific approach. 

(ii) The work assigned to each person should suit hisAer physical mental and intellectual capabilities. Efficient workers produce more to earn more. 

(iii)This ultimately helps to attain efficiency and prosperity for both organization and workers. 

The technique of scientific management used is: 

(a) Method study: Taylor advocated that there is one best method or way of performing the job which keeps production cost minimum and makes efficient use of resources. To determine the best way there are certain parameters right from procurement of raw material till the final product is delivered. The objective of method study is to minimise the cost of production and maximise the quality and customer satisfaction.