Classical management theories and organisational performance in Rivers State, Nigeria. An analysis

Abstract or Introduction

The study examined the relationship between Management (classical) theories and organisational performance in Rivers State, Nigeria.

The paper assessed the level of application of the scientific management, administrative and bureaucratic theories in Nigeria organizations with emphasis in Rivers State and their contributions to the organisational performance (productivity and growth) of the surveyed organisations. A sample of 378 staff based on Taro Yemane formula was investigated. Descriptive and inferential statistical tools were used to analyse the data generated in this study. Copies of a questionnaire were used to collect data from the respondents.

Also, 316 copies of questionnaire were found valid and relevant for utilization in the study resulting to an overall usable response rate of 83.60 %. The study revealed that the application of the scientific management, administrative and bureaucratic theories in the management of various organizations contributed to low productivity, non-growth, productivity, slow pace of organizational growth and development in the organizations.

The study concluded that given the present performances of Nigerian organizations, more needs to be done in the manner and way classical management theories were applied. Workers will be more motivated to perform in a conducive work environment if classical theories are applied with high track of efficiency while reducing unnecessary bureaucracy.

It was recommended that, for organizations to achieve the objective of effective and efficient productivity, they must understand, accommodate, embrace and promote people who are dynamic and proactive in the organisation. Organizations should also review periodically their rules, regulations and manuals to ensure current trends in the business environment. Finally, organizations should allow for initiative, innovations and workers participation in decision making.