APA Dictionary of Psychology

generally, the application of scientific methods to achieve improved worker efficiency and work conditions. More specifically, the term refers to the approach introduced by U.S. engineer Frederick W. Taylor (1856–1915) in the late 19th century and publicized in a 1911 book. This approach, also known as Taylorism or the Taylor system of scientific management, involves (a) studying the work to determine the most efficient way of performing tasks (see time and motion study) and (b) paying workers piece-rate incentives to adopt these methods (see piecework).