Flashcard Set: Chapter 2 - Management Theory

How has management evolved from the early 1900s to the present?

Early theories focused on efficiency and structure (scientific management). Modern theories consider human behavior and adaptability (behavioral and quantitative methods).

What are the three historical viewpoints of management?

Classical Viewpoint – Focuses on efficiency through scientific and administrative management. Behavioral Viewpoint – Focuses on human relations and motivation. Quantitative Viewpoint – Uses statistics and mathematical models for decision-making.

What are the three contemporary viewpoints of management?

Systems Viewpoint – Organizations function as interrelated parts within an environment. Contingency Viewpoint – Managerial actions should be tailored to specific situations. Quality-Management Viewpoint – Focuses on continuous improvement and customer satisfaction.

What are the key learnings from historical and contemporary management theories?

Management requires flexibility, efficiency, human relations, and evidence-based decision-making.

What does process and quality management focus on?

Improving productivity and efficiency through structured processes.

What is Scientific Management?

A method developed by Frederick Taylor & the Gilbreths to improve efficiency through scientific work studies.

What are Taylor’s Four Principles of Scientific Management?

Scientifically study tasks. Select workers based on abilities. Train and incentivize workers. Use scientific planning methods.

What did the Gilbreths contribute to management?

Studied motion efficiency to reduce wasted effort. Identified 17 basic motions to optimize work.

What is Contingency Theory?

Management approaches should be tailored to specific circumstances rather than using a one-size-fits-all approach.

What is Open System Theory?

Organizations interact with their environment and adapt to changes.

What is Evidence-Based Management?

Uses scientific research to improve decision-making.

What are Theory X & Theory Y (Douglas McGregor)?

Theory X – Assumes workers dislike work and require strict supervision. Theory Y – Assumes workers are self-motivated and capable of responsibility.

What is the Hawthorne Effect (Elton Mayo)?

Workers perform better when they feel managers care about them.

What are the key concepts of the Behavioral Viewpoint?

Behaviorism – Understanding human behavior in the workplace. Human Relations – Better human relations increase productivity. Behavioral Science – Uses psychology, sociology, anthropology, and economics to improve management.

What are the two quantitative approaches to management?

Management Science – Uses mathematical models and statistics for decision-making. Operations Management – Focuses on production, work scheduling, facility design, and efficiency.

What is the Systems Viewpoint?

Organizations function as systems of interrelated parts within an environment.

What are the two types of systems?

Closed Systems – Limited interaction with the environment. Open Systems – Continuously interact and adapt to the environment.

What are key concepts in the Systems Viewpoint?

Synergy – When different parts work together to produce better results. Complexity Theory – Organizations function as complex networks that evolve over time.

Why is the Systems Viewpoint useful?

Helps organizations adapt and respond to external changes.

What is the Contingency Viewpoint?

No single best way to manage—strategies should adapt based on the situation.

What is Evidence-Based Decision-Making?

Encourages using data and research to make informed management decisions.

What is the Quality-Management Viewpoint?

Focuses on continuous improvement, quality control, and customer satisfaction.

What is Total Quality Management (TQM)?

A management approach focused on continuous improvement, employee involvement, customer feedback, and eliminating errors.

Why is there no one best way to manage in all situations?

Businesses must be flexible, adaptable, and use different approaches depending on circumstances.