Henri Fayol's 14 Principles Of Management Explained

Henri Fayol’s 14 principles of management:

Henri Fayol ( 29 July 1841 – 19 November 1925) was a French mining

engineer & director of mines who developed a general theory of business

administration. Fayol's work was one of the first comprehensive

statements of a general theory of management. Fayol was a successful

mining engineer and senior executive prior to publishing his principle of

administrative science. He was not primarily a theorist , but rather a

successful senior manager who sought to bring order to his personal

experiences.

Fayol’s five principle roles of management are still actively practised

today. He has founded “Plan , organise, command, co-ordinate and

control “ written on more than one manager’s whiteboard during his

career.

Fayol ideas had a major effect on how management functions in most

established organisations .

In many ways, they are the bible of management and the source of idea

is even today is certainly used by all managers

1. Division of work:

According to this principle, the whole work must be divided into small task

or units and instead of assigning the whole work to one person. One task

or job should be assigned to one person according to the capability,

qualification and experience of the person.

When a person is performing a part of job again and again he will become

perfect and specialised in that job and efficiency will improve. This

principle is very useful for any organisation be it private or public. It

enhances overall performance of an organisation because specialists

perform consistently.

For example an organisation having different departments.

2. Authority and Responsibility:

Authority means power take decision. Responsibility means obligation to

complete the job on time. So according to principle there should balance

and parity between authority and responsibility . Excess of authority may

bring negative results and Excess of responsibility will not allow the

worker to complete the work on time.

Balance b/w both of them will result in no misuse of authority and it also

helps in meeting responsibility on tie without any delay.

3. Discipline:

Discipline refers to general rules , regulation for systematic working of an

organisation. It doesn't mean only rules and regulation but it also means

developing commitment in the employees towards organisation . It also

means obedience to organisational rules that are necessary for

functioning of an organisation. It includes –

• Good supervision at all level

• Clear and fair agreement

• Application of penalties judiciously

Employees must honor the commitment made by them and management

must meet its promises. On one hand it enforces orderliness and

motivates on other side.

4. Unity of Command:

There should be one & only one boss for every individual employees

working in an organisation. If employees get order from 2 superiors at

same time then they will get confused and not able to understand that

whose orders must be executed.

Thus unity of command avoids confusion and conflicts. It also helps in

harmonious relations and fixation of responsibility. If this principle is

violated then there will be ego clashes as employees should receive order

from one boss only. This principle helps to create peace in same as well

as lower levels.

5. Subordination of individual interest to general interest:

The interest of an organisation should take priority over the interest of

any individual employee. If objectives of both organisation and individual

are in different directions then managers must try to reconcile individual

interest with organisation goal and if it is not possible then individual goal

must be sacrificed for achieving organisational goal.

Employees are required to give up carelessness, selfishness, lethargy and

personal interest. it ensures no ego clashes as credit goes to group and

coordination between individual and organisation.

6. Remuneration to employees:

The overall pay and compensation should be fair to employees and

workers to give them at least a reasonable standard of living.

Remuneration paid to employees must be fair because if employees are

unpaid they will not be satisfied and an unsatisfied person can never

contribute his maximum. Dissatisfaction will lead to increase in

employees’ turnover.

This ensures congenial atmosphere b/w the management and workers. In

healthy atmosphere, workers put their best efforts to contribute

maximum. it ensures smooth functioning and motivates them.

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FAQs of Henri Fayol’s 14 Principles of Management Explained

What are Henri Fayol's 14 principles of management?

Henri Fayol's 14 principles of management include key concepts such as division of work, authority and responsibility, discipline, unity of command, and subordination of individual interests to general interest. Each principle serves to enhance organizational efficiency and effectiveness. For example, the division of work allows employees to specialize in tasks, leading to improved performance. Unity of command ensures that each employee has one direct supervisor, reducing confusion and conflict in the workplace.

How does the principle of authority and responsibility function?

The principle of authority and responsibility emphasizes the need for a balance between the two in management. Authority refers to the power to make decisions, while responsibility is the obligation to complete tasks. When authority exceeds responsibility, it can lead to misuse of power, whereas excessive responsibility without adequate authority can hinder task completion. This balance is crucial for maintaining order and efficiency within an organization.

What is the significance of discipline in management?

Discipline in management refers to the adherence to rules and regulations that govern organizational behavior. It fosters a culture of commitment among employees and ensures systematic functioning. Fayol highlights that good supervision, clear agreements, and fair penalties are essential for maintaining discipline. When employees honor their commitments and management fulfills its promises, it creates a motivated workforce and promotes overall organizational success.

Why is unity of command important in an organization?

Unity of command is vital because it establishes a clear line of authority within an organization. When employees receive orders from multiple supervisors, it can lead to confusion and conflicting instructions. By ensuring that each employee has only one direct superior, unity of command helps to streamline communication and clarify responsibilities. This principle not only reduces potential conflicts but also enhances teamwork and accountability.

How does Fayol's principle of remuneration affect employee performance?

Fayol's principle of remuneration emphasizes the need for fair compensation to ensure employee satisfaction and productivity. When employees feel they are compensated fairly, they are more likely to be motivated and committed to their work. Conversely, inadequate remuneration can lead to dissatisfaction, increased turnover, and a negative work environment. By prioritizing fair pay, organizations can foster a positive atmosphere that encourages employees to perform at their best.

What role does centralization play in management according to Fayol?

Centralization refers to the concentration of decision-making authority at the top levels of management. Fayol argues that organizations should find a balance between centralization and decentralization based on their size and nature. Centralization can lead to faster decision-making and tighter control, while decentralization allows for greater flexibility and responsiveness at lower levels. The key is to achieve an optimal mix that enhances organizational effectiveness.

Henri Fayol’s 14 Principles of Management Explained

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