Management Evolution Evolution of Management

A Brief History of the Evolution of Management Principles and Models

The evolution of management theories and principles in modern management thought began in the late nineteenth century and advanced rapidly all through the twentieth century up until the present day. The need to define management and the role of managers became a vital part of production as well as the need to effectively complete many business functions. This led to the foundation of various management theories that were aimed at orchestrating different business functions in an environment where the separation of labor demand some level of coordination. Classical management theories focused on the best methods for assigning the labor of various individuals and there related tasks. This line of thinking was not only necessary, but evolved into a robust field of academic study as well as professional practitioners that specialize in management. This paper will provide an introduction to the evolution of management and apply this evolution into its relevance into today's business environment.

Early Theories of Management

The first pioneer in the field of management is credited to Frederick Taylor who developed his thoughts into a theory of scientific management. Later individuals such as Henri Fayol, who added the theory of administrative management, and Max Weber, who added the levels of bureaucracy, also helped to develop management theories. All of these theories were developed on the principle of the division of labor which revolutionized the way that different goods were produced. Before the division of labor, individuals of a trade would produce one item at a time from start to finish. However, the division of labor allowed individuals to specialize in a specific task which greatly improved the efficiency in which things can be produced. The theories of scientific management, administrative management, and bureaucracy were developed as different methods in which organizations to be operated and administered efficiently to improve, succeed, and meet their profit goals.

Henri Fayol was one of the early developers of administrative management....

Favol's career consisted primarily of working in a mining company which led him to develop his theory of the six functions of management. These functions are (Mind Tools, N.d.):
1. Forecasting.

2. Planning.

3. Organizing.

4. Commanding.

5. Coordinating.

6. Controlling.

Fayol futher developed his ideas into what he referred to as the 14 principles of management. Many of these principles were not considered relevant when Fayol first developed them. However, all of these principles can be found in modern organizations. Fayol's principles will be listed because they serve as a remarkable example of exactly how advanced the early theorist of management actually were. Fayol's principles were (Mind Tools, N.d.):

1. Division of Work -- When employees are specialized, output can increase because they become increasingly skilled and efficient.

2. Authority -- Managers must have the authority to give orders, but they must also keep in mind that with authority comes responsibility.

3. Discipline -- Discipline must be upheld in organizations, but methods for doing so can vary.

4. Unity of Command -- Employees should have only one direct supervisor.

5. Unity of Direction -- Teams with the same objective should be working under the direction of one manager, using one plan. This will ensure that action is properly coordinated.

6. Subordination of Individual Interests to the General Interest -- The interests of one employee should not be allowed to become more important than those of the group. This includes managers.

7. Remuneration -- Employee satisfaction depends on fair remuneration for everyone. This includes financial and non-financial compensation.

8. Centralization -- This principle refers to how close employees are to the decision-making process. It is important to aim for an appropriate balance.

9. Scalar Chain -- Employees should be aware of where they stand in the organization's hierarchy, or chain of command.

10. Order -- The workplace facilities must be clean, tidy and safe for employees. Everything should…