LOW PRODUCTIVITY “BAD FOR ECONOMY”

Press, Volume C, Issue 29671, 15 November 1961, Page 17

LOW PRODUCTIVITY “BAD FOR ECONOMY”

A deplorably low rate of increase in productivity a head, which over the last 10 years has been one of the lowest in the Western countries, is one of the underlying causes of the deterioration of the New Zealand economy, according to the president of the Canterbury branch of the New Zealand Institute of Management (Mr P. R. Hadley) in the annual report to members.

“Few positive measures have so far emerged to help in countering this unhealthy trend in our national affairs. It seems inevitable that sheer economic circumstances, if nothing else, will compel more attention being directed to the more effective use of our national resources.

“Much of the ultimate success of any measures introduced will depend on better management techniques being employed in all activities and at all levels of responsibility,’’ he said.

The Institute of Management had its own role in the development of these national objectives by vigorously pursuing its basic aim of “formulating standards and encour-

aging study of the principles and practice of management,” said Mr Hadley. Expressing appreciation of the continued support given the institute by the University of Canterbury, Mr Hadley said that the institute council had appreciated being able to take part, along with other members of the business community, in discussions with Sir Arnold Plant on proposed business administration courses at the university.

“These proposals are welcomed as an important forward move in the field of education for management. The institute regards university degree or diploma courses as being complementary to its own short course facilities, which are directed to people already in full-time employment,” he said.

Mr Hadley said that the council was gratified With the result of two courses relating to the marketing function. It was clear that more attention must be given to the marketing of goods and services in New Zealand. The courses had, together, made a worthwhile contribution to the knowledge of marketing.