1.5.3 Formal Versus Informal Rules and Control Mechanisms Flashcards
Define Integrating Mechanisms
Methods for coordinating the activities of an organization that vary in the amount of discretion they allow member, Five methods range from direct supervision to mutual adjustment
List the five methods of achieving coordination have been identified that vary along a continuum of how much discretion is allowed for the worker
- Direct supervision
- standardization of work processes
- standardization of outputs
- standardization of skills
- standardization of adjustment
Explain direct supervision
Work is coordinated by designated supervisor who tell subordinates what to do
Explain standardization of work processes
jobs that are highly routine can be coordinated through standard operating procedures or the technology itself, such as assembly line jobs
Explain standardization of outputs
When products must be produced according to technical specifications, these specifications may serve as an adequate basis for coordinating the activities. Individual workers are allowed some discretion in performing the work as long as the output meets the required specification
Explain standardization of skills
Highly skilled and trained employees can typically coordinate their own activities by performing activities by performing activities consistent with their technical training. Coordination of a surgical team o an ambulance crew is often achieved by having individual perform their jobs according to the way they were trained
Explain mutual adjustment
refers to a constant interchange of informal communication; individuals coordinate their work through informal processes such as meetings, task forces, and liaison positions, mutually adjusting to each other’s needs. Employees communicate with whoever they need to communicate without regard for formal lines of communication
A critical issue in choosing a coordinating mechanism concerns what?
the need for information is collected, processed, and disseminated
