The Second Industrial Revolution: From Hierarchy to M Form

The Second Industrial Revolution which took place between 1870 and 1950 comprised of a revolution in transportation, communication, and production, with technological invention as their bases. Large industrial and consumer markets requiring mass production and distribution provided impetus to development. This chapter will provide a narrative of how America achieved economic progression in this new environment and how its organisations responded to economic opportunity by their design and development. The use of pure and applied science which enhanced physical constructs—such as bridges and skyscrapers—and business concepts—in accounting, management, and organisation—led to the emergence of large organisations with economies of scale (mass production) and scope (larger domestic and international markets). Ceaseless invention and innovation crossed commercial and social divides and was backed by superior organisation and management. The traditional hierarchy was complemented by new ways of organising of which the M form was most notable.