SESSION 5 Script
SESSION 5 Script
Smartphone Manufacturing
● Taylor's Principle: Break down the assembly process into individual steps and analyze
the time required for each action.
● Example: A time and motion study reveals that it takes 30 seconds to attach a
screen, 20 seconds to install the battery, and 10 seconds to secure the back cover.
● Example: All assembly workers use the same size screwdrivers, follow standardized
assembly instructions, and workstations are arranged for easy access to components,
reducing errors and delays.
● Taylor's Principle: Select workers based on their aptitude for specific tasks and
provide training.
● Example: Workers with a knack for precision tasks are assigned to delicate
component assembly, and they receive specialized training to become experts in that
area.
4. Incentive Systems:
● Example: Workers are paid a piece-rate for each smartphone completed. This
motivates them to work efficiently and produce more units, earning higher wages.
5. Functional Foremanship:
● Example: The assembly line has supervisors specializing in planning, quality control,
and employee training. The planning supervisor ensures that components are readily
available, the quality control supervisor checks each phone for defects, and the
training supervisor oversees ongoing worker skill development.
6. Exception Principle:
● Taylor's Principle: Managers handle exceptions and problems, allowing routine tasks
to be handled by workers.
It's important to note that while these principles can lead to increased efficiency and productivity,
they should be applied with consideration for worker well-being and job satisfaction to avoid
potential criticisms associated with Scientific Management.
● Taylor's Principle: Break down the cooking process into individual steps and analyze
the time required for each action.
● Taylor's Principle: Standardize recipes, cooking methods, and portion sizes to ensure
consistency.
● Example: The restaurant follows standardized recipes for all its dishes, specifying
ingredient quantities, cooking temperatures, and plating instructions. Portion sizes
are also standardized to ensure consistency.
● Taylor's Principle: Select cooks based on their culinary skills and provide training.
● Example: The head chef assigns tasks based on each cook's specialization, such as
grill, sauté, or pastry. New hires receive training specific to their roles, ensuring they
can perform their duties effectively.
4. Incentive Systems:
● Example: Cooks are offered bonuses based on the number of dishes they prepare
accurately and within the specified time frame. This motivates them to work
efficiently and maintain quality.
5. Functional Foremanship:
● Example: The kitchen has supervisors for food preparation, quality control, and staff
training. The food preparation supervisor ensures ingredients are prepped correctly,
the quality control supervisor checks dishes for taste and presentation, and the
training supervisor oversees ongoing skill development.
6. Exception Principle:
● Taylor's Principle: Managers handle exceptions and problems, allowing routine tasks
to be handled by workers.
In this restaurant kitchen example, we can see how Taylor's principles of Scientific Management are
applied to optimize the cooking process. Time and motion studies help identify the most efficient
methods, standardization ensures consistent quality, scientific selection and training match cooks to
their roles, incentive systems motivate high productivity, functional foremanship provides specialized
oversight, and the exception principle keeps the kitchen running smoothly by addressing issues
promptly.
As with any application of Scientific Management, it's important to balance efficiency with employee
well-being and job satisfaction to create a harmonious work environment.
Slide 5
Introduction: Henri Fayol (1841-1925) was a French mining engineer and management theorist
known for his significant contributions to the field of management. He is often regarded as one of
the pioneers of modern management theory. Fayol's work laid the foundation for the development
of administrative management theory, emphasizing the importance of effective organizational
structure and management functions. In this session, we will explore Fayol's key administrative
principles and their relevance in contemporary management practices.
● Henri Fayol (1841-1925) was a French mining engineer, manager, and management theorist.
● Fayol's most influential work was developed during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, a
time marked by significant industrialization and the rise of large-scale organizations.
● The industrial revolution was transforming workplaces, and organizations faced challenges
related to management and coordination.
● This era saw the need for more systematic approaches to management to address issues like
inefficiency, lack of coordination, and conflicts in organizations.
● Fayol's work was a response to these challenges, and he aimed to provide a framework for
effective management in a rapidly changing industrial landscape.
In summary, Henri Fayol's background as a mining engineer and his experiences in managing
organizations during the industrial revolution provided the practical context for the development of
his administrative principles. His theories sought to address the challenges of managing large,
complex organizations in the evolving business environment of his time.
Slide 6
1. Division of Work
The principle of division of work, also known as the principle of specialization, is one of Henri Fayol's
14 Principles of Management. It emphasizes the importance of breaking down tasks and
responsibilities into smaller, more manageable parts and assigning them to individuals or groups. The
goal is to improve efficiency and productivity within an organization by allowing individuals to focus
on specific areas of expertise.
Explanation:
1. Efficiency: Division of work aims to increase efficiency by ensuring that each person
specializes in a particular task. When employees concentrate on specific functions, they can
become more skilled and efficient at performing those tasks.
2. Time-saving: Specialization reduces the time it takes to complete a task because individuals
become adept at their assigned responsibilities. This reduces duplication of effort and
minimizes time wastage.
3. Expertise: Specialized workers tend to acquire expertise in their specific roles over time. This
expertise can lead to higher quality work and problem-solving abilities within their areas of
specialization.
1. Technology Companies:
● This division of work allows each team member to excel in their respective area,
leading to the development of high-quality software products.
2. Healthcare Industry:
● Hospitals and healthcare facilities rely on a division of work for efficient patient care.
Healthcare teams consist of specialized roles such as doctors, nurses, radiologists,
pharmacists, and administrative staff.
● Doctors diagnose and treat patients, nurses provide direct patient care, radiologists
specialize in medical imaging, pharmacists focus on medications, and administrative
staff manage scheduling and paperwork.
● This specialization ensures that patients receive expert care from professionals with
the appropriate skills and knowledge.
3. Manufacturing Sector:
● By dividing the assembly process into specialized tasks, these companies achieve
high levels of production efficiency. Workers become highly skilled in their assigned
roles, contributing to the overall quality and speed of production.
The principle of authority and responsibility, as outlined by Henri Fayol, is a crucial element of
effective management within an organization. This principle underscores the idea that authority (the
right to make decisions and give orders) should be balanced with responsibility (the obligation to
perform tasks and achieve objectives). In other words, individuals who are entrusted with
responsibilities must also possess the necessary authority to fulfill those responsibilities effectively.
Explanation:
3. Effective Decision-Making:
● Ensuring that individuals have the authority to make decisions related to their
responsibilities enables quicker and more effective decision-making, especially in
situations requiring immediate action or response.
1. Micromanagement:
● One challenge that arises when there is a mismatch between authority and
responsibility is micromanagement. When employees are given responsibilities but
not the corresponding authority, their managers may closely oversee and control
their every action. This can lead to frustration, decreased motivation, and reduced
productivity among employees.
2. Decision-Making Delays:
● In cases where individuals have responsibility but lack the authority to make
decisions, decision-making can be delayed. This can hinder the organization's
responsiveness to changing circumstances and opportunities.
3. Accountability Issues:
Examples:
1. Project Management:
2. Retail Management:
● Consider a retail store manager who is responsible for achieving sales targets. To
fulfill this responsibility, the manager should have the authority to set pricing
strategies, manage inventory levels, and make decisions related to staffing and
customer service. If the store manager lacks the authority to make pricing decisions
or hire additional staff, achieving sales targets may become challenging.
3. IT Department:
In these examples, the principle of authority and responsibility is critical for effective management.
When there is a clear alignment between the two, it enables individuals to fulfill their roles efficiently
and contribute to the organization's success. However, a mismatch can result in challenges that affect
both individual performance and organizational outcomes.
3. Discipline
The discipline principle, as articulated by Henri Fayol, underscores the significance of maintaining
discipline within an organization. It pertains to the adherence of employees to established rules,
regulations, and codes of conduct. Discipline is crucial for fostering an orderly, compliant, and
productive work environment.
3. Conflict Prevention:
4. Resource Efficiency:
1. Accountability:
● Discipline holds employees accountable for their actions and performance. When
employees know that their behavior and work output are subject to scrutiny, they
are more likely to meet performance expectations.
3. Focus on Goals:
4. Professional Development:
1. Efficiency:
2. Quality Control:
● A disciplined approach ensures that quality standards are consistently met, resulting
in the production of high-quality products or services. This is particularly crucial in
industries where quality is paramount, such as healthcare or aerospace.
4. Team Cohesion:
Example:
Healthcare Industry:
● Healthcare professionals, such as nurses and doctors, are required to adhere to strict
protocols and procedures when administering medications, conducting surgeries, or
providing patient care.
● Failure to follow these guidelines can have serious consequences, including medication
errors, surgical complications, or patient harm.
● Maintaining discipline among healthcare staff ensures that patients receive the highest level
of care, that safety standards are upheld, and that the organization's reputation for quality
care is maintained. It also contributes to a collaborative and well-coordinated healthcare
team, where each member knows their role and responsibilities.
In this example, discipline not only upholds quality and safety standards in the healthcare
organization but also contributes to the overall well-being of patients and the effectiveness of the
healthcare team. It illustrates the critical role discipline plays in industries where adherence to
established procedures is paramount.
4. Unity of Command
The unity of command principle, introduced by Henri Fayol, emphasizes that each employee should
receive orders and instructions from only one supervisor or manager. This principle aims to avoid
confusion, reduce conflicts, and maintain a clear chain of command within an organization.
● Under the unity of command principle, employees report to and receive instructions
from a single supervisor or manager. This structure ensures that there is no
ambiguity about whom they should follow and take direction from.
● This principle establishes clear reporting relationships, where each employee knows
their immediate supervisor and understands their role within the organization's
hierarchy.
3. Minimizing Confusion:
● By adhering to this principle, organizations minimize confusion and the potential for
conflicting orders or instructions that could arise if employees were required to
report to multiple supervisors.
2. Clarifying Accountability:
● Unity of command ensures clear lines of accountability. When an employee has one
supervisor, it is easier to attribute responsibility for outcomes, whether they are
positive or negative. This clarity reduces disputes over who is answerable for specific
results.
3. Enhancing Decision-Making:
Examples:
1. Military Operations:
● The military is a classic example of an organization that strictly adheres to the unity of
command principle. Soldiers follow orders from their immediate superiors, such as squad
leaders, platoon commanders, or unit commanders.
● Imagine a military unit where soldiers received orders from multiple officers. This could lead
to confusion on the battlefield, jeopardizing mission success and the safety of personnel.
2. Corporate Hierarchy:
● In a corporation, an executive team sets the overall strategy, and employees report to their
respective department heads or managers. For instance, the marketing department reports
to the Chief Marketing Officer (CMO).
● If employees within the marketing department received conflicting directives from both the
CMO and other executives (e.g., the Chief Financial Officer), it could lead to inefficiency,
misallocation of resources, and a lack of alignment with the organization's marketing
strategy.
3. Project Management:
● In project management, the unity of command principle is crucial for ensuring that team
members receive clear instructions and follow a single project leader. For example, in
construction projects, the site manager is typically responsible for directing all activities on
the construction site.
In these examples, the unity of command principle helps prevent conflicts and maintain order by
establishing a clear reporting structure, reducing the potential for conflicting orders or directives, and
enhancing organizational efficiency.
5. Unity of Direction
The unity of direction principle, one of Henri Fayol's management principles, highlights the
importance of having a single plan and coordinated action within an organization to achieve common
objectives. This principle emphasizes that all efforts and activities should be directed towards a
unified and coherent set of goals.
1. Single Plan: Unity of direction advocates for the existence of a single, well-defined plan or
strategy that guides the actions of the entire organization. This plan should outline the
organization's goals, priorities, and the means by which they will be achieved.
2. Coordinated Action: Organizations should ensure that all activities, departments, and
individuals work together in a coordinated manner to align with the established plan. This
coordination minimizes conflicts and ensures that resources are used efficiently to achieve
common objectives.
1. Corporate Strategy:
● Large corporations use unity of direction by developing a corporate strategy that sets
clear objectives for the entire organization. This strategy encompasses aspects such
as market expansion, product development, and financial performance.
● For example, a technology company may have a corporate strategy focused on
expanding into emerging markets. To achieve this, all departments, including
marketing, sales, research and development, and operations, align their activities to
support market expansion, ensuring that resources and efforts are directed towards
this common objective.
2. Project Management:
● For instance, in the construction of a new office building, unity of direction means
that all subcontractors, such as electricians, plumbers, and carpenters, coordinate
their work according to the project plan to ensure the building is completed on time
and within budget.
3. Nonprofit Organizations:
● Nonprofit organizations often have a mission and vision that guides their activities.
Unity of direction is achieved when all programs, fundraising efforts, and
administrative functions align with the organization's mission.
4. Manufacturing Industry:
● To achieve this, all production teams, from assembly line workers to quality control
inspectors, work in coordination with this strategy. They follow standardized
processes and prioritize activities that contribute to increased efficiency, aligning
their actions with the overarching goal of cost reduction.
In these examples, unity of direction ensures that organizations and teams are aligned with a
common plan or strategy. This alignment helps organizations achieve their objectives efficiently,
avoid conflicts arising from divergent goals, and maximize the effective use of resources.
The principle of subordination of individual interests to the general interest, as introduced by Henri
Fayol, emphasizes that within an organization, the interests and goals of individual employees should
be secondary to and aligned with the broader goals and interests of the organization as a whole. This
principle underscores the importance of prioritizing collective objectives over individual ambitions or
desires.
2. Alignment: Individual employees should willingly align their efforts, actions, and decisions
with the organization's overarching objectives. This ensures that all activities contribute to
the common good of the organization.
1. Conflicting Priorities:
● When individual interests conflict with the general interest, employees may prioritize
their own goals, leading to misalignment and potentially detrimental consequences
for the organization's overall performance.
2. Reduced Collaboration:
● When individual interests take precedence, organizations can lose their focus on
strategic priorities. This can lead to a lack of direction and missed opportunities for
growth and development.
Example:
Technology Company:
● Consider a technology company that values innovation and continuous improvement as part
of its organizational culture and strategic objectives. The general interest of the organization
is to remain competitive and at the forefront of technological advancements.
● However, within the company, individual employees have personal career goals and
ambitions. One software developer, for instance, may want to pursue a specific research
project that aligns with their personal interests but does not directly contribute to the
organization's strategic goals.
● Challenges may arise when the employee's individual interests conflict with the general
interest of the company. If the developer diverts a significant amount of their time and
resources to their personal project, it may detract from the organization's ability to meet its
competitive goals and innovate in line with market demands.
● To address this conflict, the company would need to communicate its strategic priorities
clearly, emphasizing the importance of subordinating individual interests to the broader
goals of remaining competitive and innovative. It may also establish mechanisms to align
employees' personal interests and projects with the organization's strategic objectives,
fostering a culture of cooperation and shared success.
In this example, the principle of subordination of individual interests to the general interest is
essential for ensuring that employees understand and prioritize the organization's strategic goals
over their personal ambitions. It highlights the significance of maintaining alignment between
individual and organizational interests to achieve long-term success and sustainability.
7. Remuneration
The remuneration principle, as advocated by Henri Fayol, emphasizes the importance of providing
fair compensation to employees for their contributions to the organization. This principle recognizes
that employees should receive compensation that is commensurate with their skills, efforts, and the
value they bring to the organization. Fair remuneration is a fundamental aspect of effective
management and employee satisfaction.
1. Fair Compensation: The remuneration principle promotes the idea that employees should be
compensated fairly for their work. This includes not only their base salaries but also benefits,
bonuses, and other forms of remuneration.
1. Market Research: They conduct research to understand industry standards and salary
benchmarks. This ensures that their compensation packages remain competitive in the job
market, helping attract and retain talented employees.
2. Job Evaluation: Organizations use job evaluation techniques to assess the relative value and
complexity of different roles within the company. This evaluation helps establish appropriate
salary ranges for various positions.
4. Pay Equity: Ensuring pay equity is crucial to prevent wage disparities. Organizations strive to
maintain fairness by compensating employees equally for similar roles and responsibilities,
regardless of factors such as gender or ethnicity.
1. Attraction and Retention: Competitive and fair compensation packages attract top talent to
the organization and encourage employees to stay with the company for the long term.
2. Performance Enhancement: When employees believe they are compensated fairly, they are
more likely to be motivated and engaged in their work. This can lead to improved job
performance and increased productivity.
4. Commitment to Organizational Goals: Employees who feel fairly compensated are more
likely to be committed to the organization's mission and objectives. They are inclined to align
their efforts with the organization's success.
5. Retention of Expertise: Fair remuneration helps retain experienced employees and subject
matter experts. This retention preserves valuable knowledge and skills within the
organization, reducing the need for constant recruitment and training.
Example:
Tech Company:
● Fair remuneration in this context ensures that the company attracts top software
development talent, motivates engineers to perform at their best, and retains valuable
technical expertise. It also leads to a harmonious and motivated workforce, resulting in
higher levels of innovation and productivity.
In this example, the remuneration principle is applied through fair compensation practices, which, in
turn, have a positive impact on employee motivation, job satisfaction, and overall organizational
success.
Centralization is a management concept that refers to the degree to which decision-making authority
and control are concentrated at the top or within a specific level of an organization's hierarchy. In a
centralized organization, top-level managers or a single individual make most of the significant
decisions, while lower-level employees have limited autonomy in decision-making.
2. Control: Centralization implies a high level of control and oversight from upper management.
It often involves a structured and hierarchical organizational structure where information
flows upward for decision-making.
Advantages of Centralization in Contemporary Organizations:
2. Clear Direction: With decision-making authority concentrated at the top, there is a clear
direction set by top management, which can help in aligning the organization's efforts
toward common goals and objectives.
4. Risk Management: Centralization allows senior leaders to have greater oversight of critical
decisions, which can be advantageous in risk management and ensuring compliance with
legal and ethical standards.
1. Limited Flexibility: Centralized organizations can be less flexible and adaptive to changing
market conditions or customer preferences. Decision-makers at the top may not have timely
access to ground-level information.
2. Slow Response Time: Decision-making in centralized structures can be slow, especially when
decisions require approval from multiple layers of management. This can hinder the
organization's ability to respond to market dynamics quickly.
3. Reduced Employee Morale: Lower-level employees may feel disempowered and less
motivated when they have limited input in decision-making. This can lead to reduced job
satisfaction and employee morale.
Example:
Retail Chain:
● Imagine a large retail chain with numerous stores operating in multiple regions. If this retail
chain follows a highly centralized decision-making structure, corporate headquarters at the
top would make most decisions regarding product offerings, pricing strategies, and marketing
campaigns.
● Advantages of centralization in this context may include consistency in branding and pricing
across all stores, efficient allocation of marketing resources, and strict adherence to
corporate policies and standards.
In contemporary organizations, the degree of centralization varies based on the industry, company
culture, and strategic goals. Organizations often seek a balance between centralization and
decentralization to harness the advantages of both approaches while mitigating their respective
disadvantages.
9. Scalar Chain
The scalar chain is a management concept introduced by Henri Fayol, emphasizing the importance of
a clear and formal line of authority and communication within an organization. It represents the
hierarchy of positions and levels of authority, ranging from top management to the lowest levels of
the organization. The scalar chain ensures that there is a defined pathway for information to flow
and decisions to be made as they move up and down the organizational structure.
1. Formal Line of Authority: The scalar chain outlines the reporting relationships and authority
levels within the organization. It specifies who reports to whom, creating a structured and
hierarchical framework for decision-making and communication.
2. Hierarchy: In a scalar chain, each position or level in the organization is connected to the one
above and below it. Information and instructions flow up the chain from lower levels to
higher levels for approval and then back down for implementation.
3. Accountability: With a scalar chain, it is clear who is responsible for making decisions and
taking action. This accountability promotes transparency and ensures that tasks are assigned
and carried out efficiently.
Example:
Manufacturing Company:
● In this scenario, the scalar chain ensures that information about the technical problem and
the decision to purchase new equipment follows a formal and structured path. This helps
prevent miscommunication, ensures that decisions are made by individuals with the
necessary authority, and promotes accountability at each level of the organization.
Overall, a clear scalar chain is a valuable management tool that enhances communication,
decision-making, and accountability in organizations by providing a formalized pathway for
information and authority to flow through the organizational hierarchy.
10. Order
The order principle, as formulated by Henri Fayol, emphasizes the importance of creating and
maintaining an organized and efficient workplace. It encompasses not only the physical arrangement
of items but also the systematic organization of processes, information, and resources within an
organization. The goal of the order principle is to enhance productivity, reduce waste, and promote a
smooth workflow.
1. Physical Organization: Order involves the structured arrangement of physical objects, tools,
and equipment to ensure that they are easily accessible, well-maintained, and used
efficiently. This includes factors such as layout, storage, and cleanliness of the workplace.
● Organizations design physical workspaces with order in mind. This includes arranging
workstations, equipment, and tools in a way that minimizes wasted movement and
time.
● For instance, a marketing agency might use digital asset management software to
categorize and store images, videos, and marketing collateral for easy retrieval and
sharing among team members.
● Standardized procedures and protocols are created to ensure that tasks are
performed consistently and efficiently. SOPs help employees understand the steps to
follow and the order in which tasks should be completed.
● Hospitals, for instance, rely on well-defined order in patient care protocols, ensuring
that medical procedures and treatments are administered in a precise and organized
manner.
● Time management techniques are applied to prioritize tasks and allocate resources
efficiently. This helps individuals and teams work on the most important and urgent
tasks in the right order.
Example:
E-commerce Warehouse:
● An e-commerce company operates a large warehouse where it stores and ships various
products to customers. To implement the order principle:
● The warehouse is organized with clearly marked aisles, shelves, and storage areas,
ensuring that products are stored in a logical order based on size, weight, and
demand.
● Standard operating procedures are established for order picking, packing, and
shipping processes to ensure efficiency and minimize errors.
● Digital asset management systems are used to catalog and organize product images,
descriptions, and customer information.
In this example, the order principle is crucial for the e-commerce warehouse's success. It enables the
efficient storage and retrieval of products, accurate order processing, and timely shipments to
customers, ultimately enhancing the organization's productivity and customer satisfaction.
11. Equity
The equity principle, as advocated by Henri Fayol, emphasizes the importance of fairness, justice, and
impartiality in dealing with employees within an organization. This principle underscores the idea
that employees should be treated equitably and without bias, both in terms of rewards and in how
they are managed.
1. Fair Treatment: Equity involves treating all employees with fairness and impartiality,
regardless of factors such as gender, race, age, or personal preferences. It extends to all
aspects of employment, including recruitment, compensation, promotions, and disciplinary
actions.
2. Justice: The principle promotes justice in decision-making. This means that decisions
regarding employee matters should be based on objective criteria, established policies, and
transparent processes.
1. Trust: Equity plays a vital role in building trust between employees and management. When
employees perceive that they are treated fairly, trust in the organization's leadership and its
commitment to fairness is strengthened. Trust is a fundamental element of a positive
workplace culture.
2. Employee Morale: Fair and equitable treatment contributes significantly to high employee
morale. When employees believe that their contributions are recognized and rewarded fairly,
they are more likely to be motivated, engaged, and satisfied with their jobs. This, in turn,
fosters a positive work environment.
3. Retention: Organizations that practice equity are often better at retaining talent. When
employees feel that they have equal opportunities for career growth and advancement
based on merit, they are more likely to stay with the organization.
4. Conflict Resolution: Equity principles can aid in conflict resolution. When disputes arise, the
perception of a fair and just process for resolving issues can reduce tension and facilitate a
more amicable resolution.
Example:
Promotion Process:
● Consider a scenario in a medium-sized tech company where there is an open position for a
team leader in the software development department. Several team members are eligible
and interested in the role.
● The HR department ensures that the job posting is transparent and accessible to all
eligible team members.
● Interviews and assessments are conducted consistently and fairly for all candidates,
and the criteria for evaluation are communicated clearly.
● As a result:
● The selected team leader is chosen based on merit and objective criteria.
● Other team members, even those who were not selected, perceive the process as
equitable and just.
● Employees are motivated to work toward future opportunities, knowing that their
contributions are recognized and that career advancement is based on fairness.
In this example, the equity principle is applied in the promotion process, leading to trust, high
morale, and a positive work environment. Employees believe they have a fair chance at career
advancement, which contributes to their job satisfaction and commitment to the organization.
The stability of tenure of personnel principle, as introduced by Henri Fayol, emphasizes the
importance of providing job stability and continuity to employees within an organization. This
principle suggests that retaining employees for longer periods can lead to increased efficiency and
employee loyalty.
1. Job Security: Stability of tenure means that employees are assured of their job security and
will not face unnecessary or frequent job changes or layoffs.
1. Increased Efficiency:
● When employees have job security and can expect to remain with the organization
for a reasonable period, they are more likely to invest in their roles, develop
specialized skills, and become more efficient in their tasks.
2. Employee Loyalty:
● Stability of tenure fosters employee loyalty because it signals that the organization
values its workforce and is committed to retaining and developing talent.
● Loyal employees are more likely to be engaged, committed, and dedicated to their
work. They tend to stay with the organization, reducing turnover and the associated
costs.
● Organizations that provide job stability reduce the need for frequent recruitment
and onboarding. This translates into cost savings in terms of advertising,
interviewing, and training new employees.
1. Flexible Work Arrangements: Offering flexible work arrangements, such as remote work or
part-time options, can provide job security while allowing for adaptation to changing
business needs.
3. Cross-Training: Cross-training employees in different roles can provide job security while
enabling them to take on different responsibilities as needed.
Example:
Technology Company:
● Employees are assured of job security even as technology and market trends change.
● The company invests in ongoing training and development, ensuring that employees
remain up-to-date with the latest industry developments.
● As a result, the company benefits from a highly skilled and loyal workforce that
contributes to its long-term success, maintains a competitive edge, and effectively
navigates the ever-changing technology landscape.
In this example, the stability of tenure principle is applied effectively, even in a fast-paced industry, to
foster efficiency, loyalty, and competitiveness. It demonstrates that job security and continuity can
coexist with adaptability in a changing business environment.
13. Initiative
The initiative principle, a concept emphasized by Henri Fayol, underscores the importance of
encouraging employees to take the initiative and contribute their ideas, creativity, and innovative
thinking to the organization. It promotes a proactive approach among employees and recognizes that
their insights and contributions can lead to positive changes and advancements.
1. Fostering Creativity: Encouraging initiative allows employees to tap into their creative
potential. When employees feel empowered to suggest new ideas and solutions, it fosters a
culture of innovation within the organization.
3. Engagement and Ownership: Employees who are encouraged to take initiative tend to be
more engaged and take ownership of their work. They feel a sense of responsibility for the
organization's success and contribute proactively to its goals.
1. Google's 20% Time: Google famously implemented a policy known as "20% time," where
employees are encouraged to spend 20% of their work hours on projects of their choice. This
initiative has led to the development of innovative products like Gmail and Google News,
showcasing the power of employee-driven innovation.
2. 3M's Post-it Notes: 3M's Post-it Notes were created when a 3M scientist took the initiative
to develop a unique adhesive for a different project. When he realized the adhesive had
potential in creating sticky notes, he pursued the idea, which became a highly successful
product.
3. Atlassian's ShipIt Days: Atlassian, a software company, hosts "ShipIt Days" where employees
have 24 hours to work on any project they choose. This initiative has resulted in the creation
of new features, products, and process improvements.
4. Zappos' "Zapponians": Zappos, the online shoe and clothing retailer, encourages employees
to be "Zapponians" by fostering a culture of innovation and initiative. They offer rewards to
employees who come up with and implement innovative ideas.
Example:
● Consider an innovative technology startup that places a strong emphasis on the initiative
principle.
● In this organization:
● Employees are encouraged to take ownership of their projects and are given
autonomy to explore new ideas and solutions.
● Regular brainstorming sessions and idea-sharing forums are held, where employees
can pitch innovative concepts.
● Employees are rewarded and recognized for their contributions, including bonuses,
promotions, or public acknowledgment of their innovations.
● As a result:
● The startup benefits from a steady stream of creative ideas, process improvements,
and innovative product features.
● Employees feel valued and engaged, resulting in higher job satisfaction and
retention.
In this example, the initiative principle is integral to the startup's culture and success. By promoting
and valuing employee initiative and creativity, the organization thrives in a competitive environment
and cultivates a motivated and engaged workforce.
The esprit de corps principle, often associated with Henri Fayol's management philosophy, centers on
fostering a sense of unity, camaraderie, and teamwork among employees within an organization. This
principle recognizes the importance of a positive team spirit in achieving organizational goals and
creating a harmonious work environment.
1. Teamwork and Unity: Esprit de corps promotes the idea that employees should work
together as a cohesive team, collaborating and supporting one another. It emphasizes a
sense of unity and shared purpose.
2. Positive Work Environment: This principle encourages the creation of a positive work
environment where employees feel valued, respected, and motivated to contribute their
best efforts to achieve common objectives.
2. Clear Communication: Open and transparent communication channels are essential for
building esprit de corps. Employees should have opportunities to share their ideas, concerns,
and feedback with colleagues and management.
4. Inclusivity: Inclusive practices ensure that all employees feel valued and included regardless
of their background, roles, or perspectives. Promoting diversity and inclusivity contributes to
a more positive team spirit.
5. Team Goals: Setting clear team goals and objectives that align with the organization's
mission can unite employees around a common purpose. When everyone understands their
role in achieving these goals, it fosters a sense of belonging to a collective effort.
Example:
Global NGO:
● In this organization:
● Teams are formed based on specific humanitarian missions, such as disaster relief,
education, or healthcare. Each team consists of individuals with diverse skills and
backgrounds.
● Regular team meetings are held to discuss project progress, challenges, and
opportunities for improvement. These meetings facilitate open communication and
idea sharing.
● The NGO acknowledges and celebrates individual and team achievements through
an annual awards ceremony and recognition in internal communications.
● As a result:
● Teams within the NGO work cohesively and efficiently, ensuring that aid reaches
those in need effectively.
● The positive team spirit extends to partnerships with other organizations and
volunteers, strengthening the NGO's impact on global issues.
In this example, the esprit de corps principle is ingrained in the NGO's culture, enabling employees
and partners to work together harmoniously toward their shared humanitarian goals. The sense of
unity and teamwork contributes to the organization's effectiveness in addressing global challenges.
Example
Imagine you are a plant manager responsible for a manufacturing facility that produces consumer
electronics, such as smartphones and laptops. You apply Fayol's principles in the following ways:
1. Division of Work: The manufacturing process is divided into specialized tasks. Workers on
the assembly line have specific roles, such as assembling components, quality control, and
packaging.
3. Discipline: Strict discipline is maintained in the plant. Employees are expected to follow
established rules and procedures to maintain safety and quality standards.
4. Unity of Command: Each employee receives orders from their immediate supervisor to
prevent confusion and ensure clear reporting relationships.
5. Unity of Direction: The plant follows a single production plan and strategy set by top
management. All departments align their activities to meet production goals.
6. Subordination of Individual Interests to the General Interest: The plant emphasizes that the
collective goal is to produce high-quality electronics. Individual interests are subordinated to
the organization's overall mission.
7. Remuneration: Salaries are determined based on job roles, skills, and performance. Bonuses
are awarded for exceeding production targets, ensuring fair compensation.
8. Centralization: While routine decisions are made at lower levels, major decisions, such as
changes in production technology or expansion plans, are centralized and made by top
management.
11. Equity: The plant treats all employees fairly, offering equal opportunities for training and
advancement. Compensation is based on performance, ensuring fairness.
12. Stability of Tenure of Personnel: The plant values long-term employment and minimizes
layoffs. Employees have job security and opportunities for career growth.
13. Initiative: Employees are encouraged to suggest process improvements and innovative
solutions. Regular brainstorming sessions are held to tap into their creative potential.
14. Esprit de Corps: A positive team spirit is fostered through team-building activities, regular
meetings, and recognition of team and individual achievements. Employees feel a sense of
belonging and work together toward common production targets.
In this scenario, the application of Fayol's principles ensures efficient production, employee
satisfaction, and the achievement of organizational goals in a manufacturing plant.