Contributions to Administration by Alfred P. Sloan, Jr., and GM

Abstract

The first part of this article describes the contrast between W. C. Durant, the innovating genius who invented General Motors, and Alfred P. Sloan, Jr., the organizer who made it work by introducing a series of novel administrative skills in organization, forecasting, policymaking, controls, and human relations. The second part is an evaluation of Sloan's contributions to administrative thought through his administrative ideology and methodology. He is considered to have pioneered in applying scientific management at the very top levels. Finally, an attempt is made to assess the extent to which Sloan's system may be deterministic beyond the period of service of himself and his associates.' Dr. Dale is associate professor of business administration in the Graduate School of Business and Public Administration, Cornell University.