Scientific management is a theory of management that analyzes and synthesizes workflows. Its main objective is improving economic efficiency, especially labour productivity. It was one of the earliest attempts to apply science to the engineering of processes and to management. Scientific management is sometimes known as Taylorism after its founder, Frederick Winslow Taylor.
Although scientific management as a distinct theory or school of thought was obsolete by the 1930s, most of its themes are still important parts of industrial engineering and management today. These include: analysis; synthesis; logic; rationality; empiricism; work ethic; efficiency and elimination of waste; standardization of best practices; disdain for tradition preserved merely for its own sake or to protect the social status of particular workers with particular skill sets; the transformation of craft production into mass production; and knowledge transfer between workers and from workers into tools, processes, and documentation.

Scientific Management: Principles and Explanation

Scientific management, also known as Taylorism, is a management theory developed by Frederick Winslow Taylor in the late 19th century. It focuses on improving efficiency and productivity in organizations by applying scientific methods to management practices. Taylor believed that there was always a "one best way" to perform any task, and it was the role of management to find and implement that method. Here are three key principles of scientific management:

1. Time and Motion Studies:
Taylor's first principle involved analyzing and measuring the time and motion required to complete a task. He believed that by breaking down work into small, simple tasks, and then determining the most efficient way to perform each task, productivity could be greatly increased. This involved carefully observing workers and timing their movements to identify any unnecessary or inefficient actions. By eliminating wasted time and motion, organizations could streamline their processes and achieve higher levels of productivity.

2. Standardization and Simplification of Work:
Another principle of scientific management is the standardization and simplification of work. Taylor advocated for creating standardized methods and procedures for performing tasks. By developing a standardized approach, organizations could ensure consistency and eliminate variations in the way work was done. This not only increased efficiency but also facilitated training and allowed for easier monitoring and evaluation of performance. Simplifying work meant breaking down complex tasks into simpler and more manageable steps, making it easier for workers to learn and execute their responsibilities.

3. Division of Labor:
The division of labor is a fundamental principle of scientific management. Taylor believed that work should be divided among employees based on their specific skills and abilities. By assigning tasks according to individual capabilities, organizations could maximize efficiency and productivity. Specialization allowed workers to become experts in their specific roles, leading to higher quality output and increased efficiency. Furthermore, dividing work into smaller, specialized tasks made it easier to train new employees and reduced the risk of errors or accidents.

In conclusion, scientific management is a management theory that aims to improve efficiency and productivity by applying scientific methods to work processes. Its principles include time and motion studies, standardization and simplification of work, and division of labor. By implementing these principles, organizations can optimize their operations, increase productivity, and achieve better outcomes.