Classical Theory And Classical Management Theory

The organizational culture of an organization is typically reflected in its type of management structure. Three common types of organizational management structure are classical theory, neo-classical theory, and systems theory. This paper will first provide a brief background and explanation of the three theories. Then, this paper will compare and contrast the design features of two organizational groups that use a classical or systems theory approach to management. Finally, this paper will identify how the respective theoretical approach reflects the organization’s culture.

Classical Theory

The classical organization theory evolved during the Industrial Revolution with a focus on efficiency. Classical organization theory represents the merger of scientific management theory and bureaucratic management theory. The primary theoretical designers of each theory are Fredrick Winslow Taylor and Max Weber respectively.

Scientific Management Theory

Taylor developed scientific management theory after observing organizational problems in his workplace, workers intentionally slacking, and adverse employer-employee relations (Taneja, Mildred, & Toombs, 2011). Through identifying the best equipment and people, then scrutinizing the production process Taylor was successful in improving production. Some of Taylor’s contributions include industrial efficiency and work measurement; standardization of tool, machines, motions, and tasks; task delineation and management; and organizational behavior.

Taylor introduced time and motion study concepts and techniques for achieving efficiency (Taneja, et al. 2011). The purpose of these studies were to determine how fast a job should, and could, be done in order to arrive at an expected r...

... middle of paper ...

...acturing. However, if the manufacturing element chooses to move the schedule up it can cause dramatic effects on the other elements.

Conclusion

While bureaucratic theory and systems theory are unique in their methods, they can still be implemented simultaneously. The criminal justice system, for example, is made up of three elements; law enforcement, the court system, and offender management. These three elements are individually bureaucratic however, they function together systematically. The law is the foundation for each of these systems it remains constant. The elements of the criminal justice system are dynamic and at times must adapt to the unique nature of the offense or offender. To remain effective, the elements of the criminal justice system must maintain their hierarchical systems while operating together in order to achieve the desired result.