The Human Relations Approach vs The Systems Approach - Essay Example

'The Human Relations Approach vs The Systems Approach' is a great example of a paper on the health system.
Early Theory: The Human Relations Approach

The theory focuses on issues affecting management such as working conditions and social factors (Adetule, 2011). Elton Mayo founded the theory in the early 1920s after various experiments (Hawthorne Studies) in American industries (Adetule, 2011). The theory's principles are founded on the findings describing that the working conditions and social issues have a direct impact on the management levels at a workplace. Notably, the approach has created a basis for managers based on the intensity of the relationship between the managers and the subordinates.

Current Theory: The systems approach

The theory states that an organization is an interconnected group of systems that have to work together towards a common goal (Adetule, 2011). The management approach requires that the managing structure should emphasize the factors that include inputs, processes, and outputs. Additionally, it also describes that the firm has both internal and external environments that have to balance depending on the company's goals and objectives (Robbins & Coulter, 2005). Importantly, maintaining the balance between the systems is the core value of management in the thesis.

Similarities between the two theories

Both theories have a common foundation for their principles that include the companies' internal conditions (Miles, 2012). The human relation theory deals with the internal environment in a firm (working conditions) during the systems approach that incorporates the processes incurred during production.

Similarly, the theories involve humans in their study as part of the management process. The human relations theory has mostly focused on human factors in understanding management principles while the systems approach takes into consideration humans as part of its synergy (Miles, 2012).

Differences between the two theories

The first theory has based its principles entirely on social and human relationships in the comprehension of management. Notably, the factors are intangible as compared to the systems approach that has employed both tangible and intangible aspects of management.

The systems theory deals with the interconnectivity of production factors while the human relations approach concentrates on independent issues. The human factors are dependent on employee behavior that is contributed to by personal traits.

Impact of technology and innovations on the role of a manager

Technological advancements have had positive impacts on the planning and controlling roles of a manager (Drucker, 2012). The supervisor can easily access data from research programs on the internet. Moreover, he/she can also access software and application that assist in reminders and notifications when the time set is due.

Innovations have also led to the adoption of surveillance devices that can be used by managers as supervision approaches in modern offices (Drucker, 2012). Communication channels between the manager and subordinates have also been simplified through innovations such as video conferencing. Managers can contact the employees from any location despite the company’s geographical location.

The leading and staffing roles of a manager have also had positive impacts due to technology (Drucker, 2012). For instance, technological devices have used to log in employees and monitor their whereabouts in organizations. Recruitments can be carried out online due to technological advancements and aids the manager in meeting competent personnel.

Management approach plan
Planning
I would come up with a strategy to improve and target the company’s goals. As a result, I would set up the necessary steps that best suit the aims and objectives.

Organizing
I would organize a competent team and required resources to allocate duties according to the level of capacity

Staffing
I would consult the human resource department to hire skilled workers.

Leading
I would ensure communication, motivation, and teamwork in my leadership role.

Controlling
I would monitor and observe the workers through a countercheck of results against goals.