Half-Way Through the First Class - Update for last week

Hello everyone,

It has finally hit me!! The higher level of study expected for successful completion of a doctoral degree has finally peeked it's head into the classroom. Up until last week, I must honestly say I was really settling in (comfortably), which was probably dangerous.

Two management theories; Total Quality Management (TQM) and Taylor's Scientific Management (Taylorism), were introduced in class last week. As the class discussion deepened, a total of 7 additional methodologies and theories were mentioned, used as cross reference and comparison for the first two; TQM and Taylorism, that were used as the initial catalyst for the discussion.

Even though the amount of assignments were decreased by half this week, the amount of research required to complete them efficiently, as you may expect, has doubled. I admit, my scholarly aptitude and awareness has been challenged and I received a glimpse of what is in store for me as I continue in this program. It's exciting!!

Here is an excerpt from a discussion post this week. I encourage you to do some research on your own concerning how Total Quality Management and Scientific Management will or can benefit your place of business or study.

Total Quality Management Theory (TQM) - Discussion Excerpt

"This theory was examined by reviewing “Total Quality Management – The Critical Success Factors” (Porter & Parker, 1993). In order for TQ Management to be successful, each member of management involved must be committed to each stage of the process. The importance of total commitment is vital when moving from necessary management behaviors (first factor) to strategy for implementation of TQM (second factor). If the correct behavior, mindset, and foundation are not present, implementing the strategy will not be successful. Also, if the level of commitment to producing adequate behavior or mentality is not present, TQM will not be implemented with the same passion or level of commitment to subordinates (other employees). Success for all will not be the main concern" (Belin, 2013).

Taylor's Scientific Management - Discussion Excerpt 

"Frederick Winslow Taylor’s principles of scientific management were briefly examined by viewing the article, “The Relevance of Scientific Management and Equity Theory in Everyday Managerial Communications Situations” (Bell & Martin, 2012). According to Bell & Martin (2012), most workers and especially members of management are not aware that Taylor’s Theory of Scientific Management is being implemented (at least to some degree). Company production becomes more efficient when members of management are aware of Taylor’s system and purposefully incorporate it into the system of operation" (Belin, 2013).

Resources

Belin, B. (2013). Walden University Portal. Approaches in Management – Thread: Discussion – Week 6. Retrieved from https://class.waldenu.edu/webapps/portal/frameset.jsp?tab_tab_group_id=_2_1&url=%2Fwebapps%2Fblackboard%2Fexecute%2Flauncher%3Ftype%3DCourse%26id%3D_3461927_1%26url%3D#global-nav-flyout 

Bell, R. L., & Martin, J. S. (2012). The Relevance of Scientific Management and Equity Theory in Everyday Managerial Communications Situations. Journal of Management Policy and Practice, 13(3), pp. 106-115.

Porter, L. J., & Parker, A. J. (1993). Total quality management – The critical success factors. Total Quality Management, 4(1), pp. 13-22.