Information Technology Management (ICTM400): Introduction to Organizations

The Curse of Cluelessness

• "The Curse of Cluelessness" refers to how bright people can make dumb decisions due to being "too smart for their own good" - a self-destructive intelligence syndrome.
• Examples of managerial errors: WorldCom ($104 Billion) and Conseco ($16 Billion).

How Organizations Work

• An IT Service Desk is a key part of an organization.
• Organizations can be viewed through four frames: Structural, Human Resources, Political, and Symbolic.

Understanding Culture

• Culture is the system of shared actions, values, and beliefs that guide the behavior of an organization's members.
• Elements of a strong corporate culture include:
  • Shared understanding of the organization's values
  • Concern for individuals over rules and policies
  • Recognition of heroes who illustrate the shared philosophy
  • Strong belief in building a common identity
  • Understanding of informal rules and expectations
  • Managers and employees sharing information and ideas
• There are four types of culture, with two dimensions: flexibility and stability, and how people interact and respond to change.

Four Levels of Culture

• Culture can be understood on four levels, but the exact levels are not specified in the text.

How Management Works

• Professional traits of successful managers include:
  • Energy and stress tolerance
  • Achievement-oriented mindset
  • Emotional maturity
  • Self-confidence
  • Integrity
  • Task-relevant knowledge
  • Flexibility