Frederick Taylor - Scientific Management

Question 1

Question:
Who was Frederick Taylor, and what is Scientific Management? How does his theory work, and how can it be applied in a modern office, factory, or workplace?

Answer 1

✅ Answer:
Frederick Taylor (1856–1915) was an American engineer known as the Father of Scientific Management. His theory aimed to improve productivity by studying tasks scientifically to find the “one best way” to do any job.

🔑 Core Ideas of Scientific Management:
Scientific Study of Tasks – Break down work into clear, measurable steps.

Standardisation – Train all workers to follow the best method.

Manager–Worker Split – Managers plan, workers execute.

Incentives – Reward high performance with financial bonuses.

🏭 Factory Example:
In a car factory, tasks like fitting tyres are analysed, timed, and repeated in the same way every time to improve speed and consistency.

🏢 Modern Office Example:
In admin jobs, Taylor’s ideas apply when processes like data entry or invoice approval are standardised with checklists or automation. Managers assign roles, track KPIs, and reward efficient performance.

📊 Why It Matters:
Increases efficiency and output

Easy to train new staff

Still used in fast food, call centres, admin roles

But criticised for treating workers like machines