Difference between Classical Management and Human Relations Management
The primary difference between the two methods of management is the specific method in which the task is undertaken. The classical approach dictates getting the job done, no matter what the cost. Comparatively, the human relations management method considers the well being of the work force and fulfilling their needs, while also focusing on getting the task accomplished. Management techniques are often considered to be a direct result of the Industrial Revolution and classical management is considered to be the crudest form. It arose thanks to the complications often seen in factories. During the time, individuals focused on getting through the day and completing the day's work. This was done by telling workers how to go about the work and making sure that it was done on time. Managers tried to get the most out of their workers and incorporated more of an autocratic style of management. During these times, the work force was treated as no different from the machines they worked with.
More recent techniques include the human relations approach. This approach is radically different from classical management. The work force is not treated as machinery; rather, they are treated as human beings that have needs. It was learned that if the needs of the workers were fulfilled, the individual would be motivated to work harder and thus, management would considerably improved performance. Human relations workers make sure the environment in which the work force functions is comfortable, safe and reliable. They work on improving the self esteem of the work force, their confidence and employee the mechanism of positive feedback; applauding an individual for their hard work ("Business Management", 1993). The technique has seen to yield considerably better results as compared to classical management techniques.