Major Techniques of Scientific Management with Practical Examples
Scientific management is a systematic approach to improving efficiency, productivity, and workplace standards in any organization. Developed by Frederick Winslow Taylor, this concept emphasizes breaking down work into clearly defined tasks, setting appropriate standards, and closely supervising processes to ensure optimal results. Scientific management is the art of knowing exactly what is to be done and how it should be done for the best and most economical outcome.
Taylor's approach reshaped modern management and became popular through works like "Shop Management" and "The Principles of Scientific Management." His methods form a vital part of Business Studies and are highly relevant for students preparing for commerce exams and for anyone interested in understanding practical business improvements.
Meaning and Key Techniques of Scientific Management
Taylor’s scientific management introduced practical techniques meant to bring about efficiency by applying scientific principles to work processes. The major techniques are summarized below.
| Technique | Description | Application Example |
|---|---|---|
| Work-Study | Organized analysis of all operations to enhance efficiency. Includes examining workflow and systematically investigating each factor affecting performance. | Measuring how long it takes workers to assemble products and finding the best sequence of tasks. |
| Standardization of Tools & Equipment | Setting standards for machines, materials, and working methods to ensure uniformity, reduce wastage, and lower costs. | Using the same size of nuts and bolts for all machinery to prevent storage issues and reduce delays. |
| Scientific Task Setting | Defining a fair and achievable task standard for workers during a working period to prevent underperformance. | Specifying the number of garments an average tailor should complete in a day. |
| Scientific Setting of Wage Rates | Introducing wage structures that motivate employees to exceed set standards. | Paying higher per-piece wages to workers who produce more than the set standard. |
| Scientific Selection & Training | Hiring the right candidate for the right job through scientific methods and providing specific training to enhance performance. | Testing applicants for skills before hiring them and offering on-the-job training. |
| Functional Foremanship | Supervision by multiple specialists, with distinct foremen managing different aspects of planning and execution. | Different supervisors are responsible for speed, repairs, discipline, and quality. |
| Differential Piece-Rate Plan | A two-rate wage system: higher rates for exceeding set targets, and lower for not meeting them. Designed to encourage maximum efficiency. | Worker earns ₹8 per unit up to 40 pieces, but ₹10 per unit if output exceeds 40 pieces. |
Detailed Step-by-Step Approach
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Work-Study: This combines four studies—method study, motion study, time study, and fatigue study.
- Method Study: Find out the best way to perform a job by investigating all methods and selecting the most efficient one.
- Motion Study: Analyze movements involved in a task; eliminate unnecessary actions (like extra walking) to save time.
- Time Study: Determine the optimal time a worker should take to complete a task, usually with stopwatches or detailed observation.
- Fatigue Study: Identify proper rest intervals to avoid physical and mental exhaustion, ensuring consistent output.
- Standardization: Uniform procedures in tools, machines, and processes reduce errors and wastage. For example, using standardized screws across production lines streamlines inventory.
- Scientific Task Setting: Establish output targets based on average ability, ensuring no worker is overburdened or underworked.
- Wage Rates: Link wages directly to worker productivity by offering incentives for meeting or exceeding targets, such as the differential piece-rate plan.
- Scientific Selection and Training: Systematic process to select qualified individuals through skill assessments and appropriate training modules.
- Functional Foremanship: Management is split between planning and production supervisors, each an expert in their area, raising overall efficiency.
- Differential Piece-Rate System: Motivates higher output by rewarding efficient workers with higher pay, while discouraging low output through lower rates.
Key Principles and Application
The techniques above are practical tools for applying Taylor’s general principles—such as “science, not rule of thumb”—to real scenarios. For example, time study implements the principle by scientifically finding the optimal time for tasks, while the differential piece-rate plan is a method to apply the idea of appropriate incentives.
Comparing principles versus techniques helps clarify:
| Principles | Techniques |
|---|---|
| Broad guidelines (e.g., "Science, not rule of thumb") | Actionable methods (e.g., work-study, functional foremanship) |
| Abstract ideas for managers | Implemented in daily operations |
Example Problem and Solution
Suppose a worker is paid ₹8 per piece up to 40 units, and ₹10 per piece for every piece produced above 40. If they make 50 pieces, the total wage is: 50 × ₹10 = ₹500, because the higher rate applies if the target is exceeded.
Such practical questions often appear in business studies exams to assess your grasp of wage systems.
| Work-Study Type | Purpose | How It Is Done |
|---|---|---|
| Time Study | Set a standard time for each job | Observe and record time using stopwatches |
| Motion Study | Identify and remove unwanted motion | Examine regular tasks step by step |
| Fatigue Study | Schedule rest intervals for efficiency | Analyze work cycle and set breaks |
| Method Study | Find the "one best way" to do a job | Study current methods, then suggest improvements |
Summary and Next Steps
Mastering techniques of scientific management is key for commerce and business studies students. Focus on understanding their definitions, applications, and differences. For deeper study, practice more questions and refer to recommended resources.
- Review practice problems related to functional foremanship and wage systems.
- Compare techniques with general management principles for exam clarity.
Continue developing your understanding through real-world case studies and mock tests to secure confidence in business environments and board exams.
FAQs on Techniques of Scientific Management (F.W. Taylor) Explained for Class 12
1. What are the main techniques of Scientific Management as given by F.W. Taylor?
F.W. Taylor introduced several key techniques to boost efficiency in industrial organizations. The main techniques are:
- Functional Foremanship
- Standardisation and Simplification of Work
- Work-study (Time, Motion, Method, and Fatigue Study)
- Differential Piece Wage System
- Scientific Selection and Training of Workers
2. How are the principles of Scientific Management different from its techniques?
Principles are fundamental guidelines, while techniques are the practical tools to implement those principles.
- Principles are broad and conceptual (like 'Science, not rule of thumb').
- Techniques are specific actions or methods (like conducting a time study to find standard working time).
3. What is meant by Functional Foremanship in Scientific Management?
Functional Foremanship is a system where a worker is supervised by multiple specialists instead of just one foreman.
- Supervision is divided into planning and production roles.
- Eight specialist foremen oversee different aspects like instruction, speed, repairs, and discipline.
- Each worker receives expert guidance for every part of their job, leading to greater efficiency and specialization.
4. What is the Differential Piece Wage System, and how does it work?
The Differential Piece Wage System is a wage payment method designed to encourage higher efficiency among workers.
- Two wage rates are set: a lower rate for below-standard work and a higher rate for achieving/exceeding the set standard.
- This system motivates employees to improve their productivity, as efficient workers earn more per unit than inefficient ones.
5. Which technique of scientific management uses 'separation of planning and execution'?
The technique is Functional Foremanship. Taylor separated factory management into planning and execution by assigning specialist foremen for each function. This ensures better supervision and increased productivity.
6. What are the different types of Work-Study under Scientific Management?
Work-Study in scientific management involves analysing work processes to improve efficiency. The main types include:
- Method Study – Finding the best way to do a job
- Time Study – Determining the standard time for tasks
- Motion Study – Eliminating unnecessary movements
- Fatigue Study – Deciding required rest intervals to reduce exhaustion
7. What is the difference between Time Study and Motion Study?
Time Study focuses on setting the standard time required to complete a specific task, using observation and measurement tools.
Motion Study analyses a worker’s movements to identify and eliminate unnecessary actions, making the process smoother and quicker.
In short, time study measures task duration while motion study improves work method.
8. Explain the purpose and benefits of Standardisation and Simplification of work.
Standardisation sets clear standards for processes, tools, equipment, and materials, ensuring uniformity in production. Simplification aims to reduce unnecessary varieties of products or procedures.
- Reduces wastage and spoilage
- Improves product quality and consistency
- Lowers production costs
- Makes work faster and easier for employees
9. Why is Scientific Selection and Training of workers important in Taylor's Scientific Management?
Scientific Selection and Training ensures the right person is chosen for the right job through objective assessment and proper skill training.
- Improves overall workforce efficiency
- Reduces the chance of errors and accidents
- Helps develop workers’ potential and job satisfaction
10. What are some limitations or criticisms of applying Scientific Management?
While effective, Scientific Management faces some criticisms:
- May treat workers as machines, ignoring their creativity and social needs
- Limits employee autonomy and job satisfaction
- 'One best way' approach may not fit all situations, especially creative or complex tasks
- Focus on efficiency can lead to work monotony
11. What is the definition of Standardization in scientific management?
Standardization is the process of setting fixed standards for every aspect of production—such as work methods, materials, tools, processes, and products—to ensure uniformity and efficiency in the workplace.
12. Give a real-world example of Method Study in use.
Method Study is used, for example, in a car factory where the placement of tools and parts is optimized. If workers are found to walk extra steps to fetch screws, relocating the screw trays closer saves time and effort, making the assembly line faster and more efficient.
