Ch 2: Classic perspective

Question 1

What led up to the emergence of the classical perspective (1900-1930)?

Answer 1

Need to reduce production costs leading to improved efficiency. Achievement of rational goals with a closed system perspective. The focus of analysis was work practice.

Question 2

Name some of the managerial problems.

Answer 2

• Disciplining laborers
• Enhancing efficiency
• Controlling labor unrest

Question 3

Describe what Frederick Taylor wanted to accomplish with his scientific management.

Answer 3

• Efficiency of factory work
• Organizing work at the lowest level of the organization
• Equal division of responsibility between managers and workers
• Shift i power from worker to manager
• Managing production as a science
• “One best way” of working
• Deskilling work
• Centralisation of decision-making
• Management’s responsibility to explicitly select, train and motivate workers to ensure that the one best way was followed

Question 4

What´s unity of command and unity of direction (Henry Fayol)?

Answer 4

Unity of command = only one superior for the group of employees.
Unity of direction = same tasks for one department

Question 5

What did Fayol mean by remuneration?

Answer 5

Fair wage for the workers.

Question 6

Describe scolor of chain (Fayol).

Answer 6

Communication should follow the line of authority.

Question 7

What did Fayol mean by equity, stability of tenure or personal and espirit the corps?

Answer 7

Equity = justice for the employees
Stability of tenure or personal = replacement has to be available to fill vacancies
Espirit the corps = team spirit for the harmony

Question 8

Name some of the things Weber thought would create the “ideal type” organization.

Answer 8

• Division of labour
• Clear authority hierarchy
• Formal selection procedures (finding best employees for the job)
• Detailed rules and regulations
• Impersonal relationship
• Employment decisions based on merit
• Career tracks
• Separation of members’ organizational and personal lives

Question 9

Name something about Ralph Davis rational planning perspective.

Answer 9

• Development of clear goals
• Plan to achieve these goals is identified
• The structure of organization is contingent on the organization’s objectives