Principle: DIVISION OF WORK

The principle of ‘Division of Work’ means to divide a given activity or work into small pieces or parts so that each part is handled with great ease and efficiency.

This principle states that every work should be divided into the smallest possible part and each such part is to be performed by an individual person (laborer). Instead of assigning the whole work to an individual, it’s better to assign one task to one person. Before assigning the task to anyone it must be assured that he posses the required knowledge, skill, capability and will to perform the task effectively and efficiently. If the same task is performed by a person again and again he gains specialization in that task and can perform with greater ease and minimizes wastage of resources and time.

Fayol has emphasized on this issue because specialization and minimization of wastage is a key to success for each and every organization. He was of the view that every work should be divided into the smallest possible part and then is to be assigned to an individual to gain success and specialization. This principle also guarantees specialization, efficiency and maximum production with minimum time and least efforts.

Positive impacts of this principle:

Ø  Specialization,

Ø  Minimization of wastage,

Ø  Improved efficiency.

Consequences of violation of this principle:

Ø  Overburden on a single employee,

Ø  Conflicting situations,

Ø  Wastage of time and resources,

Ø  Chaos and confusion.

Other principles will be discussed in coming blogs................