"According to a management expert, "even a small production activity like loading pigs of iron into boxcars can be scientifically planned and managed. This can result in tremendous saving of human energy as well as wastage of time and materials." Identify the principle of scientific management advocated in the aforesaid statement.

Science, not rule of thumb

The correct answer is option 3- Science, not rule of thumb.

Science, not rule of thumb is highlighted in the given statement.

The statement emphasizes that even small tasks can be scientifically planned and managed to increase efficiency and reduce waste. This reflects the principle of "Science, not rule of thumb", which was advocated by F.W. Taylor, the father of scientific management. According to this principle, decisions should be based on scientific analysis and data, rather than relying on guesswork, traditional methods, or personal judgment. Thus, Science, not rule of thumb is reflected in the given statement.

Science not Rule of Thumb: Taylor pioneered the introduction of the method of scientific inquiry into the domain of management practice. As different managers would follow their indigenous rules of thumb, it is but a statement of the obvious that all would not be equally effective. Taylor believed that there was only one best method to maximise efficiency. This method can be developed through study and analysis. The method so developed should substitute ‘Rule of Thumb’ throughout the organisation. Scientific method involved investigation of traditional methods through work-study, unifying the best practices and developing a standard method, which would be followed throughout the organisation.

OTHER OPTIONS

• Cooperation, Not Individualism: There should be complete cooperation between the labour and the management instead of individualism. This principle is an extension of principle of ‘Harmony not discord’. Competition should be replaced by cooperation. Both should realise that they need each other. For this, management should not close its ears to any constructive suggestions made by the employees. They should be rewarded for their suggestions which results in substantial reduction in costs. They should be part of management and, if any important decisions are taken, workers should be taken into confidence. At the same time workers should desist from going on strike and making unreasonable demands on the management.

• Development of Each and Every Person to His or Her Greatest Efficiency and Prosperity: Industrial efficiency depends to a large extent on personnel competencies. As such, scientific management also stood for worker development. Worker training was essential also to learn the ‘best method’ developed as a consequence of the scientific approach. Taylor was of the view that the concern for efficiency could be built in right from the process of employee selection. Each person should be scientifically selected. Then work assigned should suit her/his physical, mental and intellectual capabilities. To increase efficiency, they should be given the required training. Efficient employees would produce more and earn more. This will ensure their greatest efficiency and prosperity for both company and workers.

• Harmony not Discord- Taylor emphasized that there should be complete harmony between the management and workers. Both should realise that each one is important. To achieve this state, Taylor called for complete mental revolution on the part of both management and workers. It means that management and workers should transform their thinking. In such a situation even trade unions will not think of going on strike etc. Management should share the gains of the company, if any, with the workers. At the same time workers should work hard and be willing to embrace change for the good of the company. Both should be part of the family.