Management Science Process—On the Death of Theory Y

In the February 1978 issue of Interfaces. Walter Nord published an essay in Bye Wynne's “Behavioral Science” column defining some of the problems that arise when attempting to instill Theory Y assumptions in a non-Theory-Y world.

The moral for Management Science process seems clear. Management Scientists are often a breed apart and, as such, do not fit the normal corporate image nor respond to the normal corporate incentives. This could make the group seem strange to outsiders and possibly subject to investigation or ridicule by the more standard corporate types. The manager of a project team should thus try to determine if such a problem exists. If it is the case, it would seem important for the project manager to educate the detractors on the fine points of running a Management Science project. Perhaps if they understood, the criticisms will decrease and then pave the way for smoother project work and implementation.