Nature of Management

 Management as an Art

The basic features of an art are as follows:

1. Existence of theoretical knowledge: Art presupposes the existence of certain theoretical knowledge. In every art there is systematic and organised study material available to acquire theoretical knowledge of the art. For example, various books on different ragas are available in music.
2. Personalized application: The use of this basic knowledge varies from individual to individual. Art, therefore, is a very personalized concept. In the field of art only theoretical knowledge is not enough. Every artist must have personal skill and creativity to apply that knowledge. For example, all musicians learn same ragas but they apply these ragas according to their personal skill and creativity which makes them different. In management also all managers learn same management theories and principles. But their efficiency depends on how well they use these principles under different situations by applying personal skills and creativity so this feature of art is also present in management.
3. Based on practice and creativity: All art is practical. Art involves the creative practice of existing theoretical knowledge. The artist requires regular practice of art to become more fine and perfect. Without practice artists lose their perfection. Art requires creative practice, i.e., an artist must add his creativity to the theoretical knowledge he has learned. Same way experienced managers also improve their managerial skills and efficiency. So this feature of art is also present in management.

Management as a Science

Science is a systematised body of knowledge that explains certain general truths or the operation of general laws. Hence, Science can be defined as a systematic and organised body of knowledge based on logically observed findings, facts and events. Science comprises of exact principles which can be verified and it can establish cause and effect relations.

The basic features/characteristics of science are as follows:

1. Systematised body of knowledge: Science is a systematic body of knowledge. Its principles are based on a cause and effect relationship. In science organised and systematic study material is available which is used to acquire the knowledge of science. Like science in management also there is availability of systematic and organised study material. So, the first feature of science is present in management.
2. Principles based on experimentation: Scientific principles are first developed through observation and then tested through repeated experimentation under controlled conditions. The management principles are also developed through observation and experiments but since management deals with human beings and human behaviour cannot be accurately predicted. This feature of science is partially present. So management can be called inexact science.
3. Universal validity: Scientific principles have universal validity and application. Management principles are not exact like scientific principles so their application and use is not universal. They have to be modified according to the given situation. So this feature of science is not present in management.