What operational approach is highlighted in the Hawthorne Studies?

The Hawthorne Studies, conducted in the 1920s and 1930s at the Western Electric Hawthorne Works in Illinois, primarily focused on the impact of social relations and worker satisfaction on productivity. The research initially aimed to understand the relationship between physical working conditions and employee productivity but revealed that the psychological and social factors within the workplace significantly influenced performance.

Behavioral management is the operational approach highlighted in these studies, as they emphasized the importance of human behavior, motivation, and group dynamics in the workplace. The findings showed that when employees felt valued and observed, their productivity increased, illustrating how management practices that consider employee morale and interpersonal relationships can enhance overall organizational performance. This led to the development of theories that prioritize employee well-being and involvement, forming a cornerstone of modern behavioral management practices.