The optimal use of management

Abstract

We analyze the management input from the perspective of shadow cost minimization. Using Bloom and Van Reenen's management measure, we estimate management's shadow price, dual Morishima elasticities of substitution, and relative price efficiencies. We find that the shadow price of management is about 1.3 million US dollars. Management is a weak dual complement for labor but a strong dual complement for capital. Increases in management reduce the relative income share of labor but not capital. Most firms use too little management, but relative use of management improves over time, with the combination of ownership and control, and competition.