1.9.1 Arguments for universality : (i) Management process is universal : The management process is similar among
managers. In the words of
Fayol . There is a universal science of management
applicable alike to commerce, industry, politics, religion war or philanthrophy.
(ii)
Management knowledge is universal : (a) Management is culture - bound : Culture consists of attitudes, beliefs,
and values of a society. As management is people oriented there is always
a possibility that application of management principles will be affected by
culture. Ground rules under which a manager operates are different in
different cultures then common strategies of management will not be
possible.
(
b) Different objectives : The objectives of an enterprise determine the type
of management required. Different enterprises have different objectives.
So these managerial needs are linked to these objectives.
(c) Differences in Philosophies : Philosophies of one organization vary from
the other. Philosophies refer to those general concepts and integrated
attitudes that are basic to an enterprise. Managers operate with a specific
philosophy in a particular enterprise. This philosophy can be different even
in the same type of enterprise.
(iii) Management skills and principles are transferable : Management skills and
principles are transferable from are person to another, from are organisation to
another, from one country to another. When skills and principles can be transferred
then it has universal applicability.
1.9.2 Arguments against universality : Some exports feel that management principles and knowledge do not have universal
application due to cross- culture differences. They are also of the view that same management
skills can not be applied in all situations and fields and the skills are not transferable.
Peter Drucker, states that “ The skill, the competence, the experience of management cannot, as such be
transferred and applied to the organisation and running of other institutions . A career in management
is, by itself, not a preparation for major political office or for leadership in the armed forces, the
church or a university ’’.
It can be concluded that basic principles and functions of management are universal in
nature. These can be applied in every type of organisation and in every country. The application of
these principles, however may vary from person to person. The art and practice of management
always varies from situations to situations and it is culture bound.
1.13
Principles of Management
Introduction, Meaning and .....
