An Examination of Taylor’s Scientific Management Principles In International Non-Governmental Organizations: The Case of Friends of the Earth International (Ghana)

Abstract

With a particular focus on Friends of the Earth International (Ghana), this dissertation investigates how Frederick Winslow Taylor's Scientific Management Principles (SMPs) are applied in the context of international non-governmental organizations (INGOs). This study examines the ways in which Friends of the Earth International has incorporated these ideas into its operational procedures, evaluating the effects on program results and productivity. To reach its conclusions, the study employed a qualitative research methodology. As part of the research method, a semi-structured interview was conducted to engage participants in the subject of contention. A purposive, non-probability sampling method was used for the study to allow for experienced staff who have worked with the INGO share their responses. In analysing the data, the study adopted the thematic analysis approach, which helped in evaluating the various themes used in the study. The IR theory of constructivism was utilized in the study to signify the importance of ideas and norms in international relations. Thus, Taylor’s SMPs played a role in the activities of international organizations. Undoubtedly, as part of the study’s findings, the study reveals how the principles by Taylor have resulted in productive humanitarian responses in combating the issue of illegal mining, “galamsey”, through constant lobbying and education provided for by FoEI (Ghana). Through Taylor’s principle of teaching and training of staff, the organization remained capacitated to help local communities in knowing their rights in the destruction of their lands. The dissertation concludes with some recommendations that seek to strengthen the activities of INGOs and all other organizations which inadvertently apply these principles directly or indirectly. The study calls for an in-house training and the provision of incentives to individuals who comply with international organization's standards, which conforms with Taylor’s principle of replacing the rule of thumb with what he refers to as “ a true science