Public Administration and Organization Theory
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Questions and Answers

What is one of the main focuses of organization theory in public administration?

  • Finding ways to eliminate bureaucracy altogether.
  • Describing the various forms of organizational structures. (correct)
  • Trying to create a unified theory of motivation.
  • Developing laws regarding public organizations.

    • Which characteristic is associated with Weber’s ideal-type bureaucracy?

  • A clear hierarchy of authority. (correct)
  • Flexible organizational roles.
  • Informal decision-making processes.
  • Emphasis on individual autonomy.

    • Why is classical organization theory often criticized?

  • It fails to account for scientific management.
  • It focuses too much on employee motivation.
  • It overlooks the importance of technology.
  • It ignores the role of human behavior in organizations. (correct)

    • What is one of the contributions of classical organization theorists?

    <p>Establishment of scientific principles of administration.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What initiated the development of the neo-classical school in organization theory?

    <p>A recognition of the limitations of classical organization theory.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How do organization theories help in the context of public administration?

    <p>They provide a framework to understand organizational behavior.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following best describes the importance of studying various organization theories?

    <p>To gain insights about organizational behavior in different contexts.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Classical organization theory primarily emphasizes which of the following?

    <p>Structure and efficiency of organizations.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a common criticism of the relationship between organization studies and public administration since the 1970s?

    <p>They have been characterized as two ships passing in the night.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which theorist is associated with the foundational ideas of classical organization theory?

    <p>Max Weber</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does the classical organization theory emphasize as a primary goal of organizations?

    <p>Accomplishing production-related and economic goals</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following best describes the meaning of 'bureaucracy' as initially conceived?

    <p>A governmental system characterized by officials exercising excessive power</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What significant influence did the industrial revolution have on classical organization theory?

    <p>It established the necessity for formalized organizational structure.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is NOT one of the basic tenets of classical organization theory?

    <p>Organizations can exist solely for non-economic goals.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was one major focus of Chester Barnard's contributions to organization theory?

    <p>The necessity of cooperation for organizational success</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How has the perception of bureaucracy evolved over time?

    <p>It is recognized as being both efficient and inefficient.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which theorist sought to identify 'the one best way' to organize work in organizations?

    <p>Frederick Taylor</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following theories is NOT identified as part of the nine distinctive schools of thought in organization theory?

    <p>Systems theory</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which quality has historically been attributed to bureaucracy?

    <p>Administrative efficiency</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Who was known for critiquing the inefficiencies within bureaucratic organizations?

    <p>Martin Albrow</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does the hierarchical structure of a bureaucracy ensure?

    <p>Clarity in responsibilities</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why is employment and promotion based on merit considered important in a bureaucracy?

    <p>It guarantees efficiency and competence within the organization.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What did Luther Gulick and Lyndall Urwick contribute to classical organization theory?

    <p>Theories on the nature and structure of organizations</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is meant by the term 'unity of command' in bureaucratic organizations?

    <p>Each position has one and only one supervisor.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What concept is typically associated with Vincent de Gournay regarding bureaucracy?

    <p>It was coined to express disdain for powerful officials.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How do impersonal rules increase confidence in a bureaucracy?

    <p>They create a predictable environment for all clients.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What role do written files play in a bureaucratic system?

    <p>They help maintain accountability and transparency.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What aspect of bureaucracy did Weber believe increased organizational efficiency?

    <p>The specialization of labor in specific roles.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does full-time employment in bureaucracy ensure?

    <p>The bureaucrat’s allegiance and loyalty to the organization.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a potential problem associated with bureaucratic organizations according to Weber?

    <p>They can lead to technical superiority overshadowing elected officials.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a fundamental principle of bureaucratic employment regarding personal gain?

    <p>Bureaucrats are paid a fixed salary without personal gains.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why is the idea of 'decisions based on impersonal rules' important in a bureaucracy?

    <p>It establishes a consistent approach to various situations.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does 'contractual independence' refer to in a bureaucratic context?

    <p>The role of bureaucrats is independent of personal affiliations.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What did Weber suggest as a benefit of a bureaucratic organization compared to earlier forms?

    <p>Bureaucracies provide precision and efficiency.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What did Weber identify as a necessary condition for specialization of labor to be effective?

    <p>Employees must be skilled and well-trained.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In a bureaucratic organization, what is the primary source of authority?

    <p>The hierarchical position within the organization.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following forms of inducement did Barnard believe were likely more effective than monetary rewards?

    <p>Loyalty</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was Barnard's perception of the role of workers in an organization?

    <p>They depend on leadership to achieve goals.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Robert K. Merton introduced the concept of 'trained incapacity.' What does this concept highlight?

    <p>The dangers of rigid adherence to past training.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Philip Selznick emphasized the importance of which aspect in understanding organizations?

    <p>Non-rational and informal dimensions of behavior.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does a cooperative system within an organization refer to, according to Selznick?

    <p>Individuals interacting as wholes within a formal system.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary concern that Merton highlighted about bureaucracies?

    <p>They can become dysfunctional.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Selznick’s process of co-optation in organizations is aimed at what?

    <p>Preventing threats to stability.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which classical organization theorist is known for systematically studying bureaucracy?

    <p>Max Weber</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does Selznick view individuals within an organization?

    <p>As wholes with personal interests.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What characteristic of bureaucracy has led to negative perceptions among the public?

    <p>Its rigid rules and hierarchy.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why does Barnard emphasize good communication systems in organizations?

    <p>To instill the appropriate company spirit.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does Selznick's description of organizations adapting through co-optation indicate?

    <p>An ability to incorporate new elements for stability.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is considered a flaw in the bureaucratic structure according to Merton?

    <p>It results in rigid adherence to outdated practices.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which aspect did Barnard think executives should manage effectively to harness informal organization?

    <p>Communication systems.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which statement best describes the general perception of public bureaucracy in the 1980s and 1990s?

    <p>Criticism and calls for reform were prominent.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What did Charles Goodsell argue regarding governmental administration in America?

    <p>It is generally competent if viewed in a balanced way.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following scandals notably shaped public perceptions of bureaucracy in Canada?

    <p>The Quebec Sponsorship Scandal.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    According to the passage, what is one reason that negative portrayals of bureaucracy are prevalent?

    <p>Media accounts highlight bureaucratic blunders and incompetence.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What conclusion regarding bureaucracy did Raadschelders and Vigoda-Gadot arrive at?

    <p>Bureaucracy will continue to exist in society.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which type of authority does Max Weber describe as being legitimized by rules and regulations?

    <p>Legal or rational authority.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was a common misconception about bureaucracy mentioned in the content?

    <p>Bureaucracy is a singular, monolithic entity.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does the passage imply about bureaucracy's capacity for innovation?

    <p>Service delivery in bureaucracy is often innovative but not recognized.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What argument did Johan Olsen make concerning bureaucracy?

    <p>There is a need to reconsider bureaucracy as a significant concept.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What event contributed to the perception of wastefulness within Canadian bureaucracy?

    <p>The billion dollar boondoggle of 2000.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following statements regarding bureaucratic reforms is accurate?

    <p>New governance models have often created new forms of bureaucracy.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What aspect of bureaucracy did Charles Goodsell challenge?

    <p>The notion that bureaucracy has no remaining utility.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What conclusion regarding problems within bureaucracy is suggested in the content?

    <p>Concerns about bureaucracy should lead to corrective measures.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In Max Weber's classification of authority, which type is based on personal characteristics?

    <p>Charismatic authority.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is one reason proposed for the persistence of bureaucracy despite calls for its reduction?

    <p>Bureaucracy is often seen as a necessary evil.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What did the CSC discover was a significant problem when administering competitive examinations for government positions?

    <p>The roles of specific positions were not clearly defined.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which firm was hired to introduce scientific management into the Canadian federal government?

    <p>Arthur Young &amp; Co.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was one of the key results of Arthur Young & Co.'s involvement with the CSC?

    <p>Extensive classification of government positions.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why might it be more difficult to find the right candidate for administrative jobs compared to specialized positions?

    <p>Skills and aptitudes for administrative roles are less easily identified.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a significant characteristic of the current Canadian federal government structure?

    <p>It is organized around main departments hierarchically.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    According to Fayol, which principle emphasizes that employees should receive orders from only one superior?

    <p>Unity of command</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which principle suggested by Fayol relates to the need for fair remuneration of personnel?

    <p>Remuneration of personnel</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What aspect of Fayol's principles underscores the importance of clear communication of authority throughout an organization?

    <p>Scalar chain</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which factor does Fayol believe is essential for maintaining morale in the workplace?

    <p>Esprit de corps</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In what year did the CSC receive the power to make appointments to positions?

    <p>1918</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a notable feature of job classifications in the public service?

    <p>They outline responsibilities, skills, and pay scales.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What aspect of public administration in Canada is still influenced by scientific management principles?

    <p>Job classifications and merit-based hiring.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What critical function does effective record-keeping fulfill within public administration?

    <p>Ensuring accountability for actions and decisions.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What organizing principle do most governments typically use?

    <p>By purpose</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What acronym did Gulick use to summarize the functions of an executive?

    <p>POSDCORB</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which function is directly responsible for delivering services in an organization?

    <p>Line function</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary role of staff functions in an organization?

    <p>Advising and supporting line functions</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which issue often arises in the line-staff relationship?

    <p>Ambiguity about the nature of the staff function</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What distinguishes decentralization from deconcentration?

    <p>The amount of decision-making authority granted</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does span of control refer to in an organizational context?

    <p>The number of subordinates reporting to one supervisor</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What major challenge do organizations face with line and staff functions?

    <p>Establishing clear authority and procedures</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How do good organizations distinguish themselves from others, according to the content?

    <p>Ensuring collaboration between line and staff functions</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is a consequence of a very narrow span of control?

    <p>Increased number of supervisors</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which factor is least likely to influence the appropriate span of control?

    <p>Employee's personality type</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What did Gulick and Urwick contribute to the understanding of organizational behavior?

    <p>They set out systematic theories of management</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was one of the effects of the Public Service 2000 initiative regarding span of control?

    <p>Reduction in the number of senior management levels</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What typical examples illustrate line functions in government?

    <p>Public health nurses and social workers</p> Signup and view all the answers

    According to Gulick, what is essential when working from the bottom up in organizational design?

    <p>Combining homogeneous activities</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is a key function of the staff in an organization?

    <p>Providing specialized advice and record keeping</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What adverse effect can a wider span of control have?

    <p>Loss of close supervision for subordinates</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is one common misconception regarding the roles of staff functions?

    <p>They should not interfere with line functions.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does the concept of line-staff structure resemble in practice?

    <p>A hierarchy with distinct relationships</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which statement best reflects the challenge of flattening organizational hierarchies?

    <p>It may result in centralization of control at the top</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In what context is decentralization particularly important?

    <p>In governments managing diverse populations</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In regards to organizational design, what are employees ideally grouped by?

    <p>Homogeneous characteristics among them</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a common catchphrase related to span of control from earlier organizational practices?

    <p>Flattening the hierarchy</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What outcome is linked to a high span of control?

    <p>Greater communication efficiency within the organization</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is not a characteristic described by Gulick for grouping employees?

    <p>The salary they receive</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What happens to control at the organizational level with a narrow span of control?

    <p>Increased top-down control and supervision</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which factor can significantly affect productivity within an organization?

    <p>Span of control</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which characteristic affects span of control more at lower organizational levels than at upper levels?

    <p>Instability in the organization</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary disadvantage of a centralized organizational structure?

    <p>Lack of regional responsiveness</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the preferable organizational style for programs requiring coordination at the regional level?

    <p>Decentralization by place</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In what situation is deconcentration by program considered preferable?

    <p>When uniform administration is essential</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which theorist is known for discussing the idea of contradictory principles in administration?

    <p>Herbert Simon</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is Chester Barnard’s view on the balance between contributions and inducements in an organization?

    <p>Balance is essential for organizational success</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What major challenge does Simon attribute to the scientific principles of administration?

    <p>Inherent contradictions within the principles</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why is the neo-classical school of thought significant in the evolution of organization theory?

    <p>It challenged classical assumptions about workers</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which principle suggests that fewer subordinates should report to an administrator to enhance efficiency?

    <p>The principle of narrow span of control</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What aspect did the neo-classical theorists raise that contributed to later organizational theories?

    <p>Incorporation of human relations into theory</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What organizational structure is likely to have a more significant sense of local conditions?

    <p>Decentralization by place</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What challenge arises from limited guidance on choosing between contradictory principles according to Simon?

    <p>Encourages arbitrary decision making</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following describes a significant component of Chester Barnard's theory on organizations?

    <p>Organizations thrive on shared goals and communication</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why might an organization prefer centralized administration in certain situations?

    <p>To ensure consistency across the country</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following critiques is associated with the contradictions highlighted by Simon in administration principles?

    <p>They render these principles non-scientific</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a key difference between decentralization and deconcentration?

    <p>Decentralization includes physical dispersal and greater decision-making authority.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is often retained within the control of the head office in decentralized organizations?

    <p>Policy or program decisions.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why do Canadians often associate decentralization with physical dispersal?

    <p>Because of the wide geographical range of the country.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What challenge arises from having both head office rules and regional responsiveness?

    <p>There is pressure to ignore general rules in favor of local conditions.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a characteristic of geographic decentralization?

    <p>It involves the dispersal of operating units across different locations.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does effective decentralization require in large organizations?

    <p>A balance between accountability and responsiveness.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is one probable advantage of decentralization by place?

    <p>Improved coordination within each region.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In which situation would deconcentration predominantly occur?

    <p>When the focus is on the purpose of divisions rather than geography.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What must field officials balance according to their responsibilities?

    <p>Client needs with compliance to head office standards.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does the structure of decentralization based on purpose impact authority?

    <p>Senior managers remain responsible for primary activities at headquarters.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a common outcome when field officials attempt to adapt head office rules?

    <p>Greater acknowledgment of local circumstances.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is NOT a method of decentralization?

    <p>Centralization by function.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the impact of a well-implemented decentralization strategy on regional offices?

    <p>It enhances their ability to respond to local needs.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How is regional responsiveness often compromised in decentralized organizations?

    <p>Through strict adherence to centralized policies.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What did Weber identify as a central challenge for society regarding bureaucracy?

    <p>To preserve human freedom from bureaucratic constraints</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which critique of Weber's bureaucracy emphasizes the human side of organizations?

    <p>Structural focus at the expense of human elements</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does excessive adherence to rules in bureaucracy often result in?

    <p>Inefficient outcomes and 'red tape'</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which outcome is associated with a hierarchical organization as per the critiques of bureaucracy?

    <p>Difficulty in operational efficiency</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the primary long-term consequence of employees producing above standard?

    <p>Employers raised standards.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is one of the major criticisms regarding Weber's reliance on professional decision-making?

    <p>Superiors may lack necessary knowledge</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What did Frederick Winslow Taylor believe regarding 'soldiering' in the workplace?

    <p>Scientific principles can eliminate it</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What methodological approach did Taylor use to establish scientific standards?

    <p>Observations of top performers.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which aspect of bureaucracy did critics say could lead to boredom among workers?

    <p>Strict division of labor</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the main purpose of time-and-motion studies according to Taylor?

    <p>To learn the best method of performing tasks.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Taylor identified which factors contributing to worker 'soldiering'?

    <p>Poor workplace organization and employee tendencies</p> Signup and view all the answers

    According to Taylor, what should management focus on to enhance worker productivity?

    <p>Optimizing work organization and rhythm.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    According to critiques of bureaucracy, which managerial practice might hinder innovation?

    <p>Maintaining strict hierarchies and rules</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How did Taylor use financial incentives differently than traditional piecework?

    <p>He used a slip system based on past performance.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What consequence can emerge from bureaucracies emphasizing rules as ends?

    <p>Deterioration in service quality</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What concern did some writers have about Taylor’s perspective on workers?

    <p>He seemed indifferent to workers' needs.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is a modern trend that challenges the relevance of bureaucracy?

    <p>Emphasis on professionalism</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What key division did Taylor suggest should exist within an organization?

    <p>A separation of duties between management and labor.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is one consequence of implementing Taylor's ideas regarding work standardization?

    <p>Resentment and resistance from workers.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is one of Taylor's objectives regarding production management?

    <p>To properly arrange resources to minimize waste</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What issue might arise from strict measurement of employee merit in bureaucratic organizations?

    <p>Impact on diversity in hiring and promotions</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the main outcome of the establishment of the Civil Service Commission (CSC) in Canada?

    <p>A move towards merit-based public service.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Taylor's approach to management primarily emphasized what concept?

    <p>The scientific method of work management.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does the term 'red tape' refer to in the context of bureaucracy?

    <p>Excessive compliance with regulations</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following was a criticism of Taylor's methods?

    <p>They focused on individual performance excessively.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was a significant challenge faced when implementing Taylor's ideas in modern organizations?

    <p>Worker resistance to monotony.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the primary factor that Taylor rejected in his approach to worker productivity?

    <p>The principle of piecework.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In what way did Taylor's methods relate to knowledge-based organizations?

    <p>They were less effective in such environments.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Study Notes

    Public Administration and Organization Theory

    • Organization theory studies various organizational forms (public, private, non-profit) to understand their structure and performance.
    • Theories aim to explain organizational behavior and improve service delivery.
    • Diverse methodologies, frameworks, and levels of analysis are used in organization theory.
    • Organization theories often build upon earlier works and are categorized into schools (e.g., classical, neoclassical).

    Classical Organization Theory

    • Focuses on formal organizational structure.
    • Derived from the Industrial Revolution and fields like engineering and economics.
    • Key tenets:
      • Organizations exist for production and economic goals.
      • One best way to organize exists, found through scientific inquiry.
      • Specialization and division of labor maximize production.
      • People and organizations act rationally based on economics.

    Bureaucracy

    • Term coined by Vincent de Gournay (1745), initially used pejoratively.
    • Today's understanding often negative: wasteful, rule-bound, inefficient.
    • However, bureaucracy remains relevant, efficient for large-scale, complex tasks.
    • Important in Canadian public administration.

    Max Weber and Bureaucratic Theory

    • Weber (1864) systematically studied bureaucracy.
    • Three types of authority: traditional, charismatic, legal/rational.
    • Bureaucracy associated with legal/rational authority.
    • Weber's ideal-type bureaucracy:
      • Hierarchical structure (unity of command).
      • Specialization of labor.
      • Employment based on merit.
      • Full-time employment.
      • Decisions based on impersonal rules.
      • Importance of written files.
      • Bureaucratic employment separate from personal life.
    • Weber saw bureaucracy as efficient but also its potential for domination and suppression of individual freedoms.

    Criticisms of Weber's Model

    • Focus on structure over human factors is criticized.
    • Rules can become ends in themselves, leading to inefficiency ("red tape").
    • Potential for hierarchical issues and conflicts due to expert knowledge mismatch.
    • Some argued it's obsolete with changing times and workforce professionalization.
    • Limitations in hierarchical structures, specialization, and file management.

    Frederick Taylor and Scientific Management

    • Taylor (1856) focused on factory floor efficiency (scientific management).
    • Believed in 'soldiering' (workers doing minimal work).
    • Introduced time-and-motion study to find "one best way" to perform tasks.
    • Emphasized division of duties between management and labor using incentivized performance pay scales.
    • Scientific standards based on employee capabilities.
    • Focused on optimizing working rhythm and minimizing waste.
    • Initial implementation can meet worker resistance due to intense focus on productivity.

    Canadian Experience with Bureaucracy

    • Early Canadian public service was patronage-based.
    • Civil Service Commission (CSC) established (1908) for merit-based appointments.
    • Influences of scientific management and Weberian bureaucracy are clear.
    • CSC hired Arthur Young & Co. (early 20th Century) for scientific management.

    Henri Fayol and General Principles of Management

    • Fayol (1841-1925) presented a comprehensive, six-category theory of management:
      • technical (production)
      • commercial (buying/selling)
      • financial (capital)
      • security
      • accounting
      • managerial (planning, organizing, coordinating, controlling, commanding).
    • Emphasized division of labor, authority/responsibility, discipline, unity of command and direction, fair remuneration, centralization, scalar chain, esprit de corps.

    Gulick and Urwick and Scientific Organization Theory

    • Gulick and Urwick focused on organization structure and functions.
    • Span of control: number of subordinates to one supervisor.
    • Narrow span of control improves control but creates more levels.
    • Wider spans reduce levels, but lose close supervision. Factors influencing appropriate span: nature of task, employee training, geographical dispersion, organizational stability.
    • Organization of duties: combining homogeneous activities.
      • Four classifications to organize employees: purpose, process, people, place.
    • Line and staff functions: line directly involved in service, staff supports and advises.
    • Decentralization vs. deconcentration: distinguishes between delegating decision-making authority and merely dispersing physical locations.
      • Decentralization by place aims for regional responsiveness; deconcentration by program stresses uniform administration.

    Neo-Classical Organization Theory

    • Challenged the mechanistic view of the classical school.
    • Focused on factors like:
      • Informal organizational systems
      • The non-rational aspects of organizational behavior
      • The importance of human interaction, cooperation, and culture.
    • Critiques from Herbert Simon, Robert K. Merton, Chester Barnard, and Philip Selznick.

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    Description

    This quiz delves into the principles of organization theory, examining different organizational forms including public, private, and non-profit. It covers classical organization theory, bureaucracy, and the evolution of organizational structures. Students will explore how these theories inform service delivery and organizational behavior.

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