In the early 20th century, automobiles were made one at a time by craftsmen who could perform every operation necessary to build the car. Henry Ford decided to limit the number of tasks each worker performed so each person could become expert in his position. With this practice, Ford introduced ________.
A) departmentalization
B) work specialization
C) centralization
D) formalization

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Ford introduced work specialization, which limited the number of tasks each worker performed, allowing them to become experts in their particular position. This increased efficiency and productivity in automobile production. Departmentalization refers to grouping specialized functions into units or departments, centralization refers to the concentration of decision-making authority at the top of the organization, and formalization refers to the extent to which rules and procedures are written and enforced in an organization. While these concepts may have been present in Ford's practices, work specialization is the most specific and accurate term to describe his approach.

In the Early 20th Century, Automobiles Were Made One at a Time