Explain any five principles of scientific management.

Answer: F. W. Taylor, the father of scientific management, gave the following principles (any five):

1. Science, not rule of thumb: Every job should be studied scientifically to find the best way of doing it, instead of using trial and error.
2. Harmony, not discord: There should be complete harmony between management and workers; both should change their mental attitude (mental revolution).
3. Co-operation, not individualism: Management and workers should co-operate with each other; management should welcome workers’ suggestions.
4. Development of each person to his greatest efficiency and prosperity: Workers should be scientifically selected and trained so that they reach maximum efficiency, and they should be paid according to it.
5. Maximum output in place of restricted output: Production should be maximised to benefit both employer and workers.
6. Division of responsibility: Planning should be done by management and execution by workers.