My Thoughts on Frederick Taylor and Scientific Management

Frederick Taylor was coined as the "father of scientific management" or which is called "Taylorism".  It was called scientific management because it analyzed and synthesize the work flow process, in order to make an efficient labor force, waste reduction, and labor productivity.  As said the scientific process starts with the observation, hypothesis, experimentation, data gathering, conclusion then the recommendation.  Using various methods to test efficiency, it also seeks new ideas to improve rather than just stick to what is traditional.  Like science, it has to be flexible and open-minded, work ethics oriented, ready to accept failure and starting all over again before it's too late.

Here are some of the observations I've had with his theory:

• Those who are put into repetitive tasks tend to work slower eventually than those who are given different types of work.
• Labors should include reasonable rest breaks as a means to recharge their energy, recover from fatigue and increase their efficiency.
• There is a division of work between administrators and subordinates.  Self-management does exist then so does managing others.
• He was laying the groundwork for automation and offshoring.
• However he had failed to do on sustainability therefore to rely on one theory in business alone would be the fatal.  He also failed to consider individual differences.