Running Head: Unit 2 Assignment

Foundation of Management

Kaplan University

MT140: Introduction of Management

Foundation of Management

Unit 2 assignment examined the differences between various management theories. The four management theories this paper will discuss is the classical approach, behavioral approach, system approach, and contingency approach. I will explain each theory, state why management is important and give reasons to support my position.

Classical Approach (1800s)

Focuses on management from a view of hierarchical authority. It is comprised of two components: scientific and administrative management. Scientific management emphasize how equipment and workers affected productivity. A leading management expert during his time, Fredrick Taylor coined a concept called soldiering. He believed workers maintained a consistent level of productivity to prevent them from being fired or replaced by machinery. Administrative management was a theory that management as a function could be applied to any size and type of organization. It was based on the belief that workers performed their jobs because they simply needed money.

Behavioral Approach (1900s)
The behavioral approach took into account workers needs and attitudes in the workplace. Elton Mayo and his team observed how certain variables within the work environment affected workers performance. Conditions like changes in lighting, pay, and hot meals had little to no distress on workers. However, when workers were interviewed workers, they felt more valued by the company. This study was called the Hawthorne Theory. It proved social relationships bolstered productivity.

Systems Approach (1930s-1940s)
The systems approach viewed an organization as integrated parts that are managed as a whole for the purpose of achieving a common goal. W Edwards Deming thought that in order