Organizational Communication Chapter 1 Classical Approaches Organizational Communication

Organizational Communication Chapter 1 Classical Approaches

Organizational Communication: In the beginning. . . A considerable part of what we today deem organizational communication research is an attempt to explain how a large number of humans can function together as a machine. n It is not surprising then that the organization as machine metaphor has given rise to several organizational communication theories. n

Machine Metaphor n An organization is like a machine b/c its: – Specialization • Everyone has a special role – Standardization • Very replaceable – Predictability

Fayol’s Theory of Classical Management n Elements of management (What? ) – Planning – Organizing – Commanding – Coordination – Control

Fayol’s Theory of Classical Management n Principles of management (How? ) – Organizational structure • • • Scalar chain Unity of command Unity of direction Division of labor Span of control – Organizational power – Organizational reward – Organizational attitude

Weber’s Theory of Bureaucracy n Closed system n Driven by rational and legal authority n Centralized power and control n Clearly established hierarchy n Void of emotions n 6 facets of bureaucracy

Taylor’s Theory of Scientific Management n Focus on micro-level of organizational function n Prescriptive n Relational focus – Worker to worker/worker to boss n Motivation – Uneven work – Systematic soldiering

Taylor’s Theory of Scientific Management n Four tennets – One best way to do a job – Proper selection of workers for a job – Proper training – Division of labor between manager & workers

Communication in a Classical Organization This theoretical approach impacts organizational communication several ways: n 1. The communication content within a classic management organization is taskbased (maintenance) n 2. The direction of communication within a classic management organization is mainly downward. n 3. Written communication is the pervasive channel for communicating. n 4. The style of communication is formal and distant.

Remember n Machine Metaphor n Fayol’s Theory of Classical Management n Weber’s Theory of Bureaucracy n Taylor’s Theory of Scientific Management