Characteristics of Bureaucratic Theory Characteristics Description Specialization of labour Jobs are broken down into routine, well- defined tasks so that members of the organization know what is expected from them and they can become competent enough to do a particular subset of tasks. Formal rules and procedures Written rules and procedures should specify the desired behaviours from members of the organization, facilitate coordination, and ensure uniformity. Impersonality Rules, procedures, and sanctions should be applied uniformly regardless of individuals. Well-defined hierarchy Multiple levels of positions must be designed carefully keeping in mind the reporting relationships among levels. This should provide for supervision, handling of exceptions, and ability to establish accountability of actions. Career advancement based on merit Selection and promotions should be based on the qualifications and performance of members. Behavioural theories The behavioural school of management emphasizes the human element in an organization, duly recognizing its importance. It puts more stress on individual attitudes and behaviours and on group processes. The major contributors to this school of thought are named in Table 1.4. Mary Parker Follet was the pioneer of the behavioural approach to management. She recognized the significance of the human element and attributed greater significance to the functioning of groups in the workplace. According to Follet, the critical role of managers should be to bring constructive change in the organization, following the principle of ‘power with’ rather than ‘power over’. She clarified that power should not be based on hierarchical levels but should be collectively developed, fostering a cooperative concept, involving superiors and subordinates, and finally working together as a team. Hence, the need is for more power sharing. Organizations need to become democratic to accommodate employees and managers. People will work harder when the organization recognizes the individuals motivating desires. Table 1.4 Major Contributors to the Behavioural School
Posted on: Thu, 24 Jul 2014 06:26:32 +0000
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