Management Theorists Key Terms

Learn the theorists that shaped modern management theory

By Shannon Tani

There have been many management theorists throughout the ages, each one claiming that their theory is the best approach. A smart manager will take a look at the theories of several different people to determine which one he or she thinks is the best one. Alternatively, a manager may want to take bits and pieces of each theory, creating a hybrid management style that works for his or her employees. In any case, knowing some of the most popular management theorists can help you get started.

Henri Fayol

Henri Fayol was a theorist that worked during the early 1900s. His most prominent theory was the 14 Principles of Management, which are a set of fourteen "rules" that make for good management, such as the division of labor, subordination of individual interest and unity of command.
Try: Learn more about Henri Fayol and his theories from Bola.biz.

Frederick Taylor

Frederick Taylor is often called the "Father of Scientific Management." His theories focus on improving company efficiency, moving from a point where unskilled laborers can do the tasks that were once performed by skilled craftsmen.
Try: Read about Frederick Taylor and scientific management at NetMBA.

Mary Parker Follett

While others focused on improving the system of an organization, Mary Parker Follett's research focused on human relations. Some of the ideas that she popularized are the idea of a win-win situation and strength in human diversity.
Try: Visit the Follet Foundation to learn more about Mary Parker Follett.

Henry Mintzberg

Rather than working from an academic standpoint, Henry Mintzberg formed his theories through experience. He believed that the best way to develop managerial skills was in the workplace.
Try: Henry Mintzberg has his own website, where you can learn more about his ideas.

W. Edwards Deming

According to W. Edwards Deming, most workplace and product problems can be solved before they occur. The most important role of the manager, therefore, is to design a process that is free from error. In doing so, companies can prevent issues from arising.
Try: The W. Edwards Deming Institute offers a brief biography of Deming, as well as insight into his theories.

Max Weber

Max Weber is the proponent of the Theory of Bureaucracy, a theory which defined the role of the bureaucracy in the success of companies. For example, he believed that there should be strictly defined roles within an organization and that employees should only be hired if they possessed the qualifications of the job.
Try: The Economist lists a biography of Max Weber.