Scientific Management in Australia: A Discussion Paper

Abstract

Scientific Management was the best known of the approaches to develop from the systematic management push of the late nineteenth century. However, the Australian experience with scientific management has not been widely researched or documented, yet there is a need to redress the reliance on United Kingdom and United States materials. This paper seeks to take a step in this direction by reviewing some of the data that is available and which can serve as the basis for the development of a more comprehensive understanding of the historical development of work practices and work organization in Australia.