Define and Discuss the Different Theories of Management, Using Practical Examples from Your Experience or Knowledge. Compare Classical Management Theory to Any Contemporary Management Theory.

The different theories of management are classical management theory, behavioral management theory, quantitative management theory, systems management theory, contingency management theory, and quality management theory. The classical management theory focuses on finding the one best way to perform and manage task. The behavioral management theory recognizes employees as individuals with concrete human needs, as parts of work groups, and members of a larger society. The quantitative management theory uses quantitative tools to help plan and control nearly everything in an organization. The systems management theory holds that an organization comprises various parts that must perform tasks necessary for the survival and proper functioning of the system as a whole. The contingency management theory is based on the premise that manager’s preferred actions or approaches depend on the variables of the situations they face. The quality management theory states that the essence of the quality of any output is its ability to meet the needs of the person or group.

I’m the manager of two youth programs one for pre-delinquent youth and the other is a detention alternative program. I utilize all of the management theories in some form, shape, or fashion. Even though the classic theory of management may seem outdated due to other management theories coming along I still find at times that I have to find the one best way to perform a task. An issue that I constantly have in the pre-delinquent program is parents not showing up to their scheduled intake appointments. The one best way that I’ve learned to solve the issue is to schedule the appointments in the middle of the week and offer transportation to and from the appointment. This solution has been very successful for me. The company that I work for is a behavioral health organization so it’s only right that I would utilize the behavioral management theory. The majority of the consumers that we service are from an urban