Task:
Explain the relationship between organizational structure and human behaviors.
- What effects might an organizations structure have on its members?
Describe the different types of organizational structures.
Analyze how specific organizational designs can elicit predictable attitudes and motivations.
- Analyze the behavioral implications of different organizational designs and use Google Starbucks and Wal-Mart as examples.
Is it possible to generalize and say that a certain structure is better than others?
- Is there a structure that is superior in terms of its effects on its members?
- Defend your answer with references to the concepts in the readings and any references that you find relevant.
Helpful references:
Puffer, S. (2004) Changing organizational structures: An interview with Rosabeth Moss Kanter. Academy of Management Executive, 18(2).
The following article looks at changing organizational structures as open systems and the effect on managers.
Buhler, P. M. (2011). Changing organizational structures and their impact on managers. Supervision, 72(2), 24-26.