Ch 8: Basics of Management Theory
About This Chapter
Basics of Management Theory - Chapter Summary
In this chapter, our expert business instructors outline the basics of management theory. As you move through the chapter's lessons, you'll examine the classical scientific school of management, the neoclassical theory of management, behavioral management theory and much more. Each lesson comes with a short quiz to help you check your understanding of the material. If you need any extra help, you can submit questions to our instructors online at any time. Upon completion of the chapter, you should be able to:
- Explain fundamental concepts in the classical scientific school of management
- Understand how Frederick Taylor's ideas helped maximize productivity and improve efficiency
- Summarize Fayol's theories on worker satisfaction and staff management
- Analyze the neoclassical theory of management for human relations
- Explore how the behavioral management theory helps understand employee behavior and motivation

1. Classical Scientific School of Management
The scientific school of management focused on the 'science' of creating specialized work processes and workforce skills to complete production tasks efficiently. This lesson will discuss the development of scientific management and how it is applied by management as illustrated by the classic example of Henry Ford's Model T production line.

2. Frederick Taylor & Management: Maximizing Productivity & Efficiency
Known as the father of scientific management, Frederick Taylor revolutionized management practices. This lesson will discuss the contributions Taylor made to the field of management, most of which are still used today to maximize productivity and efficiency.

3. Fayol's Theories on Staff Management and Worker Satisfaction
In this lesson, we'll discuss how Henri Fayol's final seven principles play out in the workplace. Using a professional restaurant kitchen as an example, you'll learn about the importance of worker satisfaction and other elements of effective management.

4. Neoclassical Theory of Management: The Human Relations Approach
In the early 1920s, a shift away from classical management theory took place as theorists began to consider the human side of an organization and the social needs of employees. In this lesson, you will learn about the evolution of the neoclassical theory of management and its two sources: the human relations movement and the behavioral management movement.

5. Behavioral Management Theory: Understanding Employee Behavior & Motivation
Behavioral management theory was developed in response to the need to account for employee behavior and motivation. The shift moved management from a production orientation (classical leadership theory) to a leadership style focused on the workers' human need for work-related satisfaction and good working conditions.
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