Organizational Communication

  • Scientific Management

    Scientific Management
    Developed by Frederick Taylor (1856-1915). This theory follows the functional perspective.
    It states that an organization is most efficient when everyone is assigned a certain task. More specifically, this can be seen through the chain of command and detailed division of labor. Taylor also suggested close communication between management and workers. Today, this can be seen withina car production company. There is a certain assembly line that is followed to build the completed car.
  • Principles of Coordination

    Principles of Coordination
    Developed by Mary Parker Follett (1868-1933). Meaning Centered Approach This theory examines how conflict can be a constructive circumstance. Along with this, worker's motivations and goals are examined and worked with. This theory can be used by management everywhere. If an organization's management is aware of what motivates its workers, the workers will in turn work harder and be more efficient.
  • The Hawthorne Effect

    The Hawthorne Effect
    Developed by Elton Mayo (1880-1949). The Hawthorne Effect is in the Meaning Centered Perspective. It examined the dissatisfaction and inefficiency of workers due to environment within the workplace. Human relations was also emphasized to make sure the workers were given the attention they needed. This can be seen today by organizations creating workable environment that encourage hard work and efficiency. And furthermore, management hearing from the workers on if these conditions are suitable.
  • Decision- Making Approach

    Decision- Making Approach
    Developed by Herbert Simon (1916-2001). Simon describes this theory in regards that organizations are constantly having to make decisions, and that those decisions influence the overall behavior of the organization. This theory can be used today in organizations. Workers within the organization strive to gain all the information they can before making decisions in order to positively impact the organization. This is essential to create the best possible outcome.
  • The Systems Approach

    The Systems Approach
    Developed by Daniel Katz and Robert Kahn. Emerging Perspectives Category This theory explains that individual organizations are part of a bigger idea; a subset of a bigger system. This relationship is examined by looking at how an organization deals with the input and feedback from the overall environment. Through this, companies can produce products that effectively collaborate with the overall stance of the economy, environment, etc.
  • Strong Culture Perspective

    Strong Culture Perspective
    Developed by Joanne Martin and Peter Frost. This theory focuses on the culture an organization wants to have. The organizations's management states values that are important to the organization, and from there an environment and culture is built upon those values. This can be seen today in an organization such as a church. A church often times hold values of hope, love, and grace. The pastor of this church would then take these values and create and environment that enveloped these ideas.