Organisation Theory and Public Management



Organisation Theory and Public Management

Introduction

A lot of time has elapsed since organizational and management theories came into existence. Organizations these days have become complex and diverse so it is particularly interesting to see how these theories fit in. The theories of various school of thoughts will be discussed and will be evaluated on compare and contrast basis. Attempt will be made to highlight their relevance for public management by considering the following three parameters; models for organizational effectiveness; Mechanisms for coordinating and controlling work activities; Motivational strategies. Max Weber is considered to be one of the three main fathers of sociology as he inspired other theorists to come up with their own theories. He was arguing with the “ghost of Marx”. His four major themes were religion and class, class and inequality, bureaucracy and importance of meaning and action. Although, his main work revolved around analyzing bureaucracies and how they held so much power.

This paper aims at discussing several organizational management theories and their relevance for public management. It has highlighted key management theories suggested by different school of thoughts. The content of theory is also elaborated. It also aims at discussing different perspectives of organizational management and major schools of thought. The research revolves around complex organizations that are rich and diverse and takes into consideration the stances adopted by present managers and future public managers.

Theories

Max Weber's theory of bureaucracy

Max Weber in the early 1900's undertook first study of modern bureaucracy. It highlighted bureaucratic form of administration. Work is divided into administrative functions with each function being assigned to specific office. It generates hierarchy with each office's scope and authority well defined. Weber highlighted six principles: centralized decision making; management by rules where high level decisions executed at lower levels; work done by specialist categorized as per their set of skills; treat all customers and employees equally and employment granted on technical grounds (Tompkins, 2005, p.40).

Models of Organizational Effectiveness

The theory lays great emphasis on values associated with internal process model. It encourages managers to serve as monitors to ensure activities are carried out as intended. The integrative function is accomplished by the structural elements of bureaucracy. Supervision, written records and standard operating procedures help in ensuring organizational effectiveness. It also focuses on rational goal model but to a lesser extent as it only focuses on productivity, efficiency and goal attainment. The hierarchical chain of command ensures high level of productivity which in turn enhances organizational effectiveness (Tompkins, 2005, p.58)..

Mechanisms for Coordinating and Controlling Work Activities

The theory focuses on standardization of worker skills, standardization of work processes and direct supervision. Direct supervision is facilitated by the arrangement of offices in a hierarchy. Each subordinate is required to comply with the orders of the superior. Standardization of work processes enables coordination of routine work activities. The work processes incorporates coordination thereby limiting worker discretion and chances of mistakes. Standardization of work processes and direct supervision are most applicable in production ...