Question

Briefly explain the following technique of scientific management as given by F.W. Taylor:

Functional foremanship

Answer 1

1. Functional Foremanship means dividing the work of supervision among different specialists on the shop floor. It is based on the principle of division of work and specialization.
2. According to Taylor, a single foreman cannot possess all the required qualities, such as intelligence, education, judgment, technical knowledge, energy, honesty, and good health. Therefore, he suggested appointing eight different foremen, each specializing in a particular function.
3. Each worker receives instructions from these eight specialists according to the type of work being done. For example, a person with technical knowledge and intelligence may handle planning work, while a person with energy and good health may supervise execution work.
4. Thus, functional foremanship ensures better supervision and efficient working through specialization