Org. Theory and Design: Chapter 14 (MC)

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Questions and Answers

According to Pondy's model, in which stage of organizational conflict does no outright conflict exist?

Stage 4: manifest conflict

Stage 2: perceived conflict

Stage 1: latent conflict (correct)

Stage 3: felt conflict

How does Pondy explain the emergence of organizational conflict?

As a result of different perceptions among employees

Caused by the clash of goal-directed behavior of different groups (correct)

Due to lack of clear goals within the organization

Because of slow and ponderous decision-making

What are the potential benefits of conflict in an organization, as mentioned in the text?

Improved employee satisfaction

Increased collaboration and teamwork

Overcoming organizational inertia and leading to change (correct)

Reduced stress and tension in the workplace

When does conflict in an organization stop being a force for good, as per the text?

When it becomes a cause of organizational decline Signup and view all the answers

What does managing conflict effectively require, based on the text?

Learning how to control it Signup and view all the answers

What do vertical and horizontal differentiation lead to?

Establishment of diverse organizational subunits with different goals Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the most important political tactics a manager can use?

Controlling the agenda Signup and view all the answers

In the context of organizational politics, what is equally important to possessing and using power?

Knowing how and when to use power Signup and view all the answers

What can organizational politics do to the choices and decisions of an organization?

Improve the choices and decisions Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important for an organization to establish a balance of power?

So that alternative views and solutions can be offered and considered by all Signup and view all the answers

What must happen over time to the balance of power in an organization?

Shift toward the part that can best manage uncertainty and contingencies Signup and view all the answers

What determines whether power and politics benefit or harm an organization?

Balance of power among organizational stakeholders Signup and view all the answers

Which stage of conflict is characterized by subunits developing an emotional response toward one another?

Stage 3: felt conflict Signup and view all the answers

What is the mechanism through which conflict gets resolved according to the text?

Organizational power Signup and view all the answers

What is one way to harness conflict between subunits and prevent the polarization of attitudes?

Setting up a procedural system for airing grievances Signup and view all the answers

What is the main reason managers need to prevent conflict from reaching the manifest stage?

To avoid a breakdown in communication Signup and view all the answers

Which stage of conflict is characterized by one subunit attempting to thwart the goals of another subunit?

Stage 4: manifest conflict Signup and view all the answers

What is one way to resolve conflict by acting at the level of structure?

Flattening the hierarchy Signup and view all the answers

What is the definition of organizational power according to the text?

The ability to overcome resistance by others to achieve a desired objective or result Signup and view all the answers

What do individuals and subunits use many political tactics for within organizations?

'Acquiring, developing, and using power and other resources to obtain preferred outcomes in a situation in which there are uncertainty or disagreement about choices' Signup and view all the answers

'Becoming indispensable' involves which of the following according to the text?

Becoming non-subsitutable or central Signup and view all the answers

'Organizational politics' can be defined as:

'Acquiring, developing, and using power and other resources to obtain one’s preferred outcomes' Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Organizational Conflict and Pondy's Model

The latent stage of Pondy's model indicates that no outright conflict exists.
Conflict emerges from differences in views, competition for resources, or diverging interests within the organization.

Benefits and Downsides of Conflict

Potential benefits of conflict include fostering creativity, enhancing decision-making, and clarifying issues.
Conflict ceases being beneficial when it escalates to personal attacks or damages relationships within the organization.

Managing Conflict Effectively

Effective conflict management requires strong communication skills, understanding of underlying issues, and a collaborative approach.

Differentiation and Its Effects

Vertical and horizontal differentiation leads to role specialization and diversification within the organization, influencing how different levels and departments function.

Political Tactics in Management

One important political tactic for managers is building alliances and networks to gain support and resources.
Possessing power is equally important as understanding the context and environment in which it is applied.

Impact of Organizational Politics

Organizational politics can influence decision-making, shape policies, and affect the overall strategic direction of the organization.
Establishing a balance of power is crucial to ensure equitable resource distribution and to prevent any single group from dominating.

Evolution of Power Dynamics

Over time, the balance of power in an organization must adapt to reflect changes in leadership, strategy, and external conditions.
The dynamics of power and politics determine whether they will benefit or harm the organization depending on how they are exercised.

Stages and Mechanisms of Conflict

The emotional stage of conflict sees subunits developing negative feelings towards each other.
Conflict resolution often occurs through open communication, mediation, or negotiation tactics.

Strategies for Conflict Management

To harness conflict constructively, leaders can intervene by facilitating discussions or collaborative projects to align interests.
Preventing conflict from reaching the manifest stage is crucial as it leads to visible disputes that can undermine organizational harmony.

Structural Approaches to Conflict Resolution

Conflicts can be resolved structurally by reorganizing teams, clarifying roles, or reallocating resources to mitigate friction.

Definitions of Power and Politics

Organizational power is defined as the capacity to influence others and control resources to achieve desired outcomes.
Individuals and subunits leverage various political tactics to navigate organizational dynamics and pursue their goals.

Becoming Indispensable

'Becoming indispensable' involves enhancing one's skills and making significant contributions that align with organizational objectives.
Organizational politics refers to the activities and behaviors that individuals utilize to gain advantage or influence decisions within organizations.

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Description

Learn about organizational conflict and its impact on goal-directed behavior, organizational inertia, learning, and change. Understand the benefits and drawbacks of conflict in an organization.