The classical school of management, also known as the bureaucratic theory of management, is a school of thought that emerged during the 19th and early 20th centuries. It is characterized by a focus on rational and logical decision-making, as well as the belief that organizations should be structured in a hierarchical manner with a clear division of labor.
One of the main proponents of the classical school of management was Henri Fayol, a French engineer and industrialist. Fayol developed a set of principles for organizational management, which he outlined in his 1916 book "General and Industrial Management." These principles included the need for a clear division of labor, a hierarchy of authority, and the importance of both formal and informal communication.
Another key figure in the classical school of management was Max Weber, a German sociologist. Weber believed that organizations should be structured in a bureaucratic manner, with clear rules and regulations and a strict hierarchy of authority. He also emphasized the importance of impersonal decision-making and the need for managers to be trained and competent in their roles.
The classical school of management has had a significant impact on the way organizations are structured and managed. Its emphasis on rational decision-making and hierarchy has led to the development of bureaucratic organizational structures, which are still prevalent in many organizations today. However, the classical school of management has also been criticized for its rigid and inflexible approach to management, which can stifle creativity and innovation.
Overall, the classical school of management is a significant school of thought that has influenced the way organizations are structured and managed. While its principles have been influential, they have also been subject to criticism and have been modified and refined over time as new ideas and approaches to management have emerged.