Question

Explain the following principle of management:
(a) Scalar chain (b) Science, not Rule of Thumb

Answer 1

(a) Principle of Scalar Chain and Gang plank

The formal lines of authority from highest to lowest ranks are known as scalar chain. According to Fayol,

“Organisation should have a chain of authority and communication that runs from top to bottom and should be followed by managers and subordinates.”

(b) Science, Not Rule of Thumb When different managers use their own different methods to get the work done it is rule of thumb. Taylor believed that there was only one best method to maximise efficiency. Taylor advised that every organisation should compare the results of different methods, test them again and again and finally select one best method of getting the work done.