Classical Approaches and Theories
Classical approaches and theories saw organizations through lens of machine metaphors as organizations run in a mechanistic style relying on principles of standardization, specialization, and predictable. Standardization relates to consistency and uniformity (Classical approaches, 18)
Specialization and Predictability
Specialization is related to the division of labor. In a machine, it is associated with specific parts performing specific functions like the injector and the plug (Classical approaches, 18). Predictability is associated with regulations that govern the machine and the way they operate. Organizations just like machines run according to specific regulations set. If rules are broken, they become dysfunctional and rational decisions can be made to put them in order (Classical approaches, 23)
Henry Fayol's Elements of Management
Henry Fayol discussed elements of management and put in consideration the principles of management which both concern the function of organizing. The elements he majored on are planning, organizing and command. Planning is concerned with looking ahead, putting actions in place and strategies to help the organization achieve its goals. Organizing is positioning of human resources and putting in place ways to evaluate them. Command is setting responsibilities to employees. These elements are important for the organization to function but Fayol did not consider an element of communication (Classical approaches, 19)
Power Relationships within the Organization
Fayol observed the principles of management concerned with power relationships within the organization. These are centralization and authority. Centralization is where the central management has control over decision making. Fayol believed that the size of the firm and employees' attributes could influence ideal centralization levels (Miner, 1982). Authority and responsibility suggest that managers should hold power that relates to their position and personal characteristics like experience and intelligence. However, the principles hold that authority must go in hand with responsibility (Classical approaches, 19)
Max Weber's Theory of Bureaucracy
Weber has laid out features of an ideal organization. In his theory of bureaucracy, he has highlighted the characteristics of a particular form of organization (Classical approaches, 20)
Characteristics of an Ideal Bureaucracy
He suggests that a bureaucracy organization should be operated through a clearly defined hierarchy, division of labor, and centralization. A hierarchy is a form of structure that defines a horizontal or vertical sketch of an organization. Division of labor relates to segments or specialization of tasks while centralization is the central point where decision making is made (Classical approaches, 20)
Functioning of Authority
Weber also suggests that organizations are closed systems where they function independently without interference. He likewise emphasized the importance of setting rules that govern operations. He stresses the functioning of authority by highlighting the need for discipline, power and authority. He proposes that traditional authority is power centered on long-standing beliefs on who should have control (Classical approaches, 20)
Differences Between Fayol and Weber Theories of Management
The two questions the material made me thought about are; what are the differences between Fayol and Weber theories of management? What is the relationship between Fayol's elements of management and principles of management?
Impact on Organizational Communication Experience
For instance, considering a worker in a stock exchange company run according to Taylor's theory of scientific management, the employee will not be encouraged to discuss with fellow employees about better ways to process stock security forms as it is assumed that better ways have already been determined scientifically and that the worker is not capable of improving on these ideas.
Conclusion
The material has enabled me to have a broad understanding of my own organizational communication experience in that; it has helped me to have a deep understanding of organizational management. It has enabled me to combine theories of classical communication. Nonetheless, it has taught me to consider aspects of organization management to achieve organization goals.
Organization Communication and Success
In conclusion, Organization communication focuses on establishing relationships, strengthening organization tasks, and interacting with internal and external stakeholders. Classical approaches to management for Weber and Fayol are key in the attainment of organization success (Classical approaches, 23)
Works Cited
Classical Approaches. (n.d). Retrieved :< file:///C:/Users/HP/Downloads/ Chapter_2(2)%20PDF%20classical%20approaches%20for%20revision.pdf>
