Question

Mooney and Reiley’s principles include:

I. Scalar Process, which describes the universal process of coordination through hierarchy.

II. Functional Differentiation, which emphasizes the division of labor based on place (area).

III. Line and Staff, recognizing staff’s role in providing specialized advice and information.

Which of the following is correct?

• A. I only
• B. II and III only
• C. I and III only
• D. I, II, and III

Answer 1

Answer:

C. I and III only

Mooney and Reiley's Principles of Administration

• Mooney and Reiley, in their seminal work 'Onward Industry', proposed key principles for effective organizational management.
• I. Scalar Process: This principle highlights the importance of a hierarchical structure in organizations. It suggests that authority and responsibility flow vertically from top to bottom, ensuring clear lines of command and communication. This establishes a chain of command, often referred to as the 'scalar chain'.
• II. Functional Differentiation: This principle, while important in management theory, is not one of the core principles explicitly identified by Mooney and Reiley in the same context as scalar process and line and staff. Functional differentiation typically refers to the division of labor based on specialized tasks or functions, rather than geographic area.
• III. Line and Staff: This principle distinguishes between 'line' functions, which are directly involved in the primary objectives of the organization (e.g., production, sales), and 'staff' functions, which provide support, advice, and specialized expertise to the line managers. Staff roles include planning, research, and legal counsel, aiding in decision-making and efficiency.
• Therefore, according to Mooney and Reiley's framework as commonly understood in public administration studies, the correct principles are the Scalar Process and Line and Staff.