Scientific Management as the Science of Modern Management : Suggestions for a Revised Interpretation

So-called "Scientific Management" is the symbol of modern management, and Frederick Winslow Taylor, who originated it, is considered the "Father of Scientific Management." His insight is clearly shown in the following words from "Introduction" to his book, The Principles of Scientific Management: "In the past the man has been first; in the future the system must be first." Taylor's management philosophy was to replace individualistic, or unplanned management with systems, or plan-based management. Here, the modern management philosophy was generated, replacing the pre-modern rule of thumb. What separates modern management from pre-modern management is the establishment of management authority. In his 1903 article "Shop Management," he embodied this philosophy in the form of task management. In 1911, he articulated the basic principles of task management, in other words, management's responsibilities to assume, as principles of scientific management. However, his contribution to the history of management thought is considered to be related to the management system called the Taylor System or Taylor System of Scientific Management, which he devised, and his underlying management philosophy has not been duly appreciated. This paper argues that Taylor should not only be regarded as the father of Scientific Management, but also as one of the founders of "modern" management thought.