ORGANIZATIONAL THEORY

Apple Inc. Organizational Theory

Organizational Theory at Apple Incorporation

Introduction

Organizational theory can be defined as an applied science in which results of the knowledge or proposition is connected to the problem solving and decision making activities in an ongoing institution or organization. Generally speaking, organizational theory is comprised of two important things: Knowledge produced as a result of scientific research and a practical experience; and managing resources and solving problems (Hatch, 2006).

This report is about organizational theories being followed by an American multinational organization, popularly known as, Apple Inc. The company deals in personal computer, computer software, and consumer electronics. The report discusses different perspectives of the organizational theories being followed at Apple Inc. After thorough study of its organizational culture, organizational structure and leadership style, Apple Inc. seems to follow the modernist and postmodernism theory of organization. We made our decision based on ontological and epistemological assumptions being discussed in the later part of this report.

In this constantly ever changing competitive environment of the computer/electronic industry we can reasonably use the two perspectives of organizational theory in order to examine and analyze Apple's Inc. organizational network and influence. Now days it is very important to understand the situation and ongoing events and their affects on the organization. Hence, it creates the need to respond to them in an appropriate way.

Discussion

Apple Inc., which was formerly known as Apple Computer Incorporation, is a multinational organization that designs and sells personal computers, computer software and other consumer electronics. The company was incorporated on January, 1977 in California and was named Apple Computers Inc. It was established by Steve Jobs, Steve Wozniak, and Ronald Wayne. The motive behind the company was to sell a machine designed by Steve Wozniak. Now the company is best known for its series of Macintosh computers, iPhone, iPad and iPod, The Company was named Apple Computer Inc. for the first thirty years. Later on its name was changed to Apple Inc. as the company decided to shift its focus from personal computers to consumer electronics. The company grew very fast in a very little time period (Tony Bradley, 2010).

There were many famous figures associated with the company but the man who contributed much for its success is none other than Steve Jobs. From the past few years company went through numerous changes in its organizational cultural and structures as a result of several events. Apple, despite all these pressures, is still committed to bringing the best computer experience for students, educators, professionals, and consumers all around the world through its different innovative products. Apple Inc is responsible for enormous growth of the computer industry in the 20th century. As of now, the company had 60,400 employees working world wide. It has 364 retail stores in thirteen countries and one online store. It is also the largest publicly traded company in the world in terms of market capitalization. It has huge revenues and profits than Google and Microsoft combined (Linzmayer, 1999).

Organizational Theory Perspectives

Organizational Theory can be defined ...