BUREAUCRACY.pptx, it's one of the theori

It's a nice representation for management theory

1. BUREAUCRATIC THEORY BY MAX WEBER

2. OBJECTIVES Definition of Bureaucracy Characteristics of bureaucratic system Examples of bureaucracies Advantages of bureaucratic theory Disadvantages (criticism) of bureaucracy

3. Introduction Max Weber’s theory of bureaucracy is an approach that proposes a specific way to manage an organization. It proposes that the most appropriate way to run an organization is to structure it into a rigid hierarchy of individuals governed by strict rules and regulations

4. Characteristics of a Bureaucracy Hierarchical management structure Division of labor Formal rules and regulations Impersonality Formal selection process Professionalism

5. Characteristics cont’d 1. Hierarchical management structure Organization is are divided into different levels of authority where each level control the level below it, and is controlled by the level above it. There is an arrangement where individuals or elements are ranked according to their level of authority and significance. The highest level has the most power and responsibility than the subsequent levels. 2. Division of labor Tasks are divided into specific roles and responsibilities based on expertise making operations more efficient and manageable

6. Characteristics cont’d 3.Formal Rules and Regulations The organization is guided by rules and regulations that are documented to ensure uniformity and predictability (Merton, 1957 ). 4. Impersonality Personal relationships do not influence decisions; instead, actions are guided by established rules i.e. decision making is not influenced by personal feelings or relationships or personal preference . ( Ritzer , 2000 ). 5. formal selection process Employees are selected based on their technical qualifications and competencies rather than personal connections or favoritism thereby placing the right people in the right positions.

7. 6. Career orientation (Professionalism) Managers are career professionals, not owners of units they manage and Officials are expected to be competent and professional in their duties.

8. Examples of Bureaucracies Examples of bureaucracies Government Agencies Military Organizations Educational Institutions Healthcare Organizations International Organizations

9. Advantages of bureaucracy Efficiency and predictability : Clear rules and procedures streamline operations, making processes more efficient and outcomes more predictable ( Weber, 1947) Specialization : Division of labour allows employees to become highly skilled in specific tasks, leading to higher productivity and expertise ( Gerth &Mills, 1946) Accountability : Formal documentation and clear hierarchy enhance accountability and transparency ( Merton, 1957 )

10. Advantages ( cont’d…) 4. Consistency and uniformity : Standardized procedures ensures consistent treatment of all employees and clients ( Ritzer , 2000) 5. Stability and reliability : The structured nature of bureaucracy provides stability and reliability, making the organization less dependent on individual personalities ( Blau & Meyer, 1971)

11. Disadvantages of Bureaucratic theory Rigid and inflexibility : strict adherence to rules can stifle creativity and innovation making difficult to changing environment (Merton, 1957) Depersonalization : the impersonal nature of bureaucracies can lead to alienation and decreased job satisfaction (Weber, 1947) Overemphasis on hierarchy : a rigid hierarchical structure can hinder communication and reduce responsiveness to issues ( Blau & Meyer, 1947) Potential for abuse of power : concentration of power in a hierarchical system can lead to misuse or abuse of authority ( Gerth & Mills, 1946)

12. C onclusion Weber’s bureaucratic theory offers a detailed understanding of how large organization can be efficiently managed through rational-legal authority.

13. Reference Blau , P. M., & Meyer, M. W. (1971). Bureaucracy in Modern Society (2nd ed.). Random House. Gerth , H. H., & Mills, C. W. (1946). From Max Weber: Essays in Sociology. Oxford University Press. Merton, R. K. (1957). Social theory and Social Structure. Free Press. Ritzer , G. (2000). Classical Sociological Theory (3rd ed.). McGraw-Hill. Weber, M. (1947). The Theory of Social and Economic Organization. Oxford University Press.