 |
Leon P. AlfordAmerican mechanical engineer and organization theorist
Date of Birth: 01.01.1877
Country:  USA |
Content:
- L.P. Alford: Pioneer in Scientific Management
- Early Career and Advocacy for Systematic Management
- Presidency and Hoover Commission
- Critique of Taylorism
- ASME Committee and Taylor's Book
- Industrial Management and Labor Reforms
- Legacy and Contributions
- Honors and Awards
L.P. Alford: Pioneer in Scientific Management
Early Life and EducationLeone P. Alford was born in 1877. He graduated from Worcester Polytechnic Institute in 1896 with a degree in mechanical engineering.
Early Career and Advocacy for Systematic Management
In the early 20th century, Alford worked in business process systematization. He later advocated for a similar management style within the American Society for Mechanical Engineers (ASME).
Presidency and Hoover Commission
In 1929, Alford became a member of President Herbert Hoover's commission to investigate the state of the economy. He co-authored the 1929 report, "Recent Economic Changes."
Critique of Taylorism
Alford's advocacy for systematic management put him at odds with Frederick Winslow Taylor's scientific management approach. In 1912, Alford joined the chorus of critics against Taylor's theories and published a work criticizing scientific management.
ASME Committee and Taylor's Book
In 1912, as part of an ASME committee, Alford considered the publication of Taylor's book "The Principles of Scientific Management." He reiterated his criticism of Taylor and his scientific management approach under the authority of the ASME. The committee's report on the merits of scientific management proved controversial, and ASME declined to publish Taylor's book.
Industrial Management and Labor Reforms
Alford published his own management treatise, "Industrial Management." He advocated for a reformist approach to labor and supported union movements. In 1920, he co-founded the Management Division of the ASME.
Legacy and Contributions
Alford emphasized flexibility in "industrial relations" and "engineering psychology." He opposed rigid approaches to work organization, such as scientific management. His approach to labor relations was widely adopted by those who adhered to the liberal style of management. Alford's efforts helped the Management Division of ASME become one of the largest divisions within the organization. He died in 1942.
Honors and Awards
Alford was awarded the first Melville Medal in 1927 and the Henry Laurence Gantt Medal from the ASME.
