Shovels,Trowels,and Ice Cream Scoops: In Search of the Right Tool to Explain Scientific Management

Abstract

Every basic management textbook describes the works of Frederick Taylor, Frank and Lillian Gilbreth, and others collectively known as scientific management. Students sometimes have trouble identifying with these historical figures and their experiments on worker productivity. The exercise described in this article demonstrates several of the early scientific management principles using the preparation of ice cream cones. Students work as servers, managers, and monitors to replicate the methods used by Taylor and the Gilbreths to improve efficiency. The exercise illustrates scientific management principles in a way much more familiar and enjoyable than discussions of hauling pig iron and laying brick.