Questions and Answers
What is the role of an Ombuds officer in an organization?
Someone who listens to the concerns of internal organizational publics and may also review organizational policies and mediate disputes between the organization and its employees.
When was the first ombudsman position established?
1713
What has brought about the widespread adoption of informal information-gathering methods in government agencies?
Growing dissatisfaction with ever-longer lines of communication to increasingly isolated managers and bureaucrats.
What is one kind of ombudsman known for?
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What role does one type of ombudsman primarily play?
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What was the purpose of Dow Chemical Company's 'ombudswoman'?
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What authority does the ombudsman appointed by Bronx Community College's president have?
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Who does the University of Nebraska-Lincoln's ombudsman report to?
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What is the U.S. Navy's family ombudsman program designed to do?
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What is the function of the 'patient representative' in a large New York Hospital?
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What does the ombudsman provide for management awareness?
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Why is the information-gathering method described as exploratory and informal?
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Study Notes
Ombudsman and Ombuds Officer
- An Ombuds officer listens to concerns from internal organization members and may mediate disputes.
- This role may involve reviewing organizational policies and providing feedback for improvements.
Historical Context
- The term "ombudsman" originated in 1713 with the establishment of the first position by the Swedish government.
- Ombudsmen help address issues while they are still manageable and provide valuable feedback.
Informal Information-Gathering
- Growing dissatisfaction with complex communication channels has led to the increased use of informal information-gathering methods in government agencies.
Types of Ombudsmen
- Some ombudsmen possess independent authority to investigate and resolve issues.
- Others may protect bureaucratic interests, primarily facilitating communication without significant authority.
Specific Examples
- Dow Chemical Company created a position of "ombudswoman" to promote women's advancement in the workplace.
- At Bronx Community College, the ombudsman collects student complaints but lacks the authority for in-depth investigations.
- The University of Nebraska-Lincoln's ombudsman operates independently, reporting to nobody while being accountable to everyone.
- The U.S. Navy's family ombudsman program, established in 1809, acts as a liaison to address grievances and improve administrative quality.
Patient Advocacy
- A large hospital in New York utilizes a "patient representative" to advocate for patients and families in resolving issues.
Role of Ombudsman
- An ombudsman facilitates management awareness of public sentiment and can be a key source of organizational feedback.
- Properly staffed and utilized, the role is essential for addressing individuals' concerns effectively.
Methodology Limitations
- The informal, self-selected sample approach of ombudsmanship is exploratory and may identify issues affecting subsets of a larger group.
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Description
Explore key concepts related to Ombuds officers and the Ombudsman role with these informative flashcards. Learn about their responsibilities, historical origins, and significance within organizations. This quiz is an essential tool for understanding conflict mediation and organizational dynamics.
