Why OM? Scientific Management - On the Clock...

Background:

Frederick Taylor's Principles of Scientific Management revolutionized manufacturing. A scientific approach to the analysis of daily work and the tools of industry frequently increased productivity 400%. Others also contributed to the discipline of OM: Gantt (Gantt charts), Gilbreth (Time and Motion studies), Ford/Sorenson (Moving assembly line), Shewhart (Statistical sampling), Harris (Economic order quantity).

Questions for Thought:

1. Why were Frederick's principles of Scientific Management alone able to improve productivity so much? Is this still true today?

2. What is the video clip or Norma Rae referring to when they say "spot checker"? Why would management use this method to measure workers?

3. Can you think of places this type of work measurement is used today?

4. How does it feel to be "on the clock" or as the video clip from Norma Rae states, "being watched"? Why would workers be apprehensive of this type of work measurement, i.e., "being watched" ?