Sources of Conflict
Some view conflict as an inevitable outgrowth of the combative side of human nature. In the business world, a basic source of conflict is competition for resources or recognition within an organization. But conflicts can also be driven by outside so...
Subject: worker
Organizational Structure: Traditional vs. Non-Traditional
Although specific organizational designs vary from company to company, there has been a broad trend away from what might be called mechanistic organizational designs toward more organic ones. Mechanistic designs depend on centralized authority and m...
Subject: worker
Japanese and American Production Models
As long as other countries lacked industrial capacity, especially following World War II, U.S. companies could absorb tremendous inefficiency and still compete. All that changed when the Japanese developed new methods of integrating various aspects ...
Subject: worker
Informal Communications Network, The
The informal communications network plays a powerful role in any organization. Communication of this nature frequently takes place prior to the formal communication process and is often driven by personal relationships.
Subject: worker
Informal Organization, The
If power in the formal organization is about position rather than people, power in the interpersonal networks that comprise what's been called "the informal organization" is all about people and the subtleties of human nature. In some cases, these i...
Subject: worker
Influence, Power and Authority
Authority is one form of power. Often called "legitimate" power, authority is a formal part of any organization. It is allocated to individuals according to their position in the organization. Because each individual can only do so much personally, ...
Subject: worker
Influence, Power and Authority
Power is the ability to influence the behavior of other people. Although it is often associated with dominance and aggression, power can also be used in very positive and productive ways. In some cases, it is based on formal position, but there are ...
Subject: worker
Building Morale Case Study: Patagonia
Patagonia is a manufacturer of outdoor clothing. While the climate at some firms evolves without much thought or conscious planning, Patagonia's climate has been carefully molded to help employees realize their potential. Typical of the value Patago...
Subject: worker
Break-Even Analysis and Audits
A break-even analysis allows managers to calculate at what point revenues will cover expenses, and to determine whether a specific project will generate enough income to cover both its fixed and variable costs. Most organizations are also subject to...
Subject: worker
Budgets and Employee Morale
Financial controls affect every aspect of a company, including the behavior, attitudes and morale of employees. Often, most employees in an organization see the budget in very negative terms.
Subject: worker