SCIENTIFIC MANAGEMENT IN ACTION" Taylorism at Watertown Arsonal. 1908-1915
By HUGH G. J. ANKEY
In the early 20th century, the Watertown Arsenal became a beacon of innovation through the application of Frederick Taylor's principles of scientific management. From 1908 to 1915, the implementation of Taylorism revolutionized production processes at the arsenal, setting a new standard for efficiency and productivity in manufacturing.
Under the guidance of Taylor and his associates, the arsenal workers were meticulously studied and their tasks meticulously analyzed to streamline operations. By breaking down each job into its most basic components and utilizing time-motion studies, the workers' productivity levels soared, leading to significant improvements in output and quality.
The adoption of scientific management at Watertown Arsenal not only transformed manufacturing practices but also influenced the broader industrial landscape, setting the stage for modern management techniques that are still in use today. This period stands as a testament to the power of applying scientific principles to optimize processes and achieve remarkable results.
Princeton NJ. PRINCETON UNIVERSITY PRESS. 1985. 286p.