What Are Effective Management and Motivational Theories in Relation to Problem Solving?

by Beth Greene, Demand MediaManagement theories involving teamwork can be effective.

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Human Relations School

Harvard University professor Elton Mayo (1880-1849) helped father the Human Relations School theory whereby managers support their employees and create opportunities for multi-level interaction through teamwork. Mayo believed that this created a better environment for communication and accountability, key to problem solving. Under this theory, managers take a strong interest in the lives of their employees to help facilitate teamwork, with the hopes to ultimately increase productivity. Teamwork here can motivate low-performing employees to work harder, so as to remain on par with their colleagues. The Human Relations School has led to other management theories, such as Lewin's Worker Participation, which have been incorporated into modern business practices.

Appreciative Theory

The Appreciative Theory has management look at the best practices in a company and expand upon them to solve problems. Established in the 1980s by David Cooperrider and Suresh Srivastva, this theory highlights the positive contributions made by employees and uses the company's strengths to change organizations. The application involves a four- or five-step process that includes: identifying the positives, group brainstorming, designing programs based upon best practices and executing the ideas.Related Reading: Motivation, Work Behavior Theories & Management Implications

Total Quality Management

Total Quality Management is a business improvement methodology that involves employee participation and communication. Though all problem solving decisions in TQM must be customer-focused, it is a practice that depends upon employee buy-in and support. Constant employee feedback and recognition is a component of TQM.

Simplex Process

The Simplex Process is a problem-solving methodology that can be effective for many businesses. The eight-step Simplex was created by Min Basadur at McMaster University, Ontario, Canada. Steps include identifying and defining the problem, planning and evaluating solutions and executing the idea. Simplex is successful when creative participation is encouraged, which can inspire and challenge those employees involved.

Ref: http://smallbusiness.chron.com/effective-management-motivational-theories-relation-problem-solving-31305.html