The basic four principles of management and organization, often referred to as the “Four Principles of Management,” were proposed by Henri Fayol, a French mining engineer and management theorist. These principles serve as a foundation for effective management practices and organizational structure. They are:

• Division of Work: This principle emphasizes the specialization of tasks and the division of labor within an organization. Divining work among individuals based on their skills and expertise increases efficiency and productivity. Each employee focuses on a specific set of tasks, becoming more proficient in their area of responsibility.
• Authority and Responsibility: According to this principle, managers must be able to give orders and make decisions within their area of responsibility. Authority is the right to command and enforce obedience, while responsibility is the obligation to perform assigned tasks. Clear delegation of authority and responsibility helps maintain a well-structured organization with defined roles and accountability.
• Discipline: Discipline is necessary for ensuring that employees respect the rules and regulations of the organization. Fayol believed the sentence should be upheld to maintain a productive and harmonious work environment. Managers should apply fair and consistent disciplinary actions to support order and encourage adherence to organizational policies.
• Unity of Command: The principle of unity of command states that an employee should receive instructions from only one manager to avoid confusion and conflicting orders. Having multiple supervisors for a single employee can lead to misunderstandings and inefficiencies. Unity of command helps maintain a transparent chain of knowledge and a streamlined flow of communication within the organization.

Contemporary management approaches often emphasize teamwork, employee empowerment, flexibility, and adaptability to changing business environments. However, the Four Principles of Management by Henri Fayol remain influential in understanding the fundamental concepts of effective management and organizational structure.