ORGANIZATIONAL PARADIGMS

Organizational Paradigms: Rational, Natural and Open Systems
University of Phoenix

Organizational Paradigms: Rational, Natural, and Open Systems What are organizations? How do we construct successful organizations? What is the most effective organizational structure or culture? Jones (2007) defines an organization as a tool individuals use to coordinate actions in an effort to achieve goals. “Organizational culture is a by-product of the interaction between employer and employee” (Baker, 2009, p.28). The culture, values and objectives of the organization are established by organizational leaders. According to Ohm (2006), “it is the set of unspoken interactions, relationships and expectations
Mayo’s human relations theory was visible as the trustee board members of PBC operated as a single unit forging committed relationships. “They do not behave as individual, isolated actors, but as members of social groups exhibiting commitments and loyalties to colleagues stronger than their individualistic self-interests” (Scott & Davis, 2007, p.65). PBC leaders operated with a high level of concern for church members and elderly members in the community. The Angel Food Ministry was developed to collect and distribute meals to the elderly within the community. Barnard’s social consensus model described by Scott and Davis (2007) is representative of the theoretical teachings of PBC. Tasks were structured in a top down approach allowing integrated participation among members. Individuals willingly contributed and members collectively worked to achieve goals. The AGIL concept, discussed by Scott and Davis (2007), developed by Parson suggests that organizations operate based on adaptation, goal attainment, integration and latency. Environmental changes were closely followed and PBC adapted as needed to ensure success. The church adapted to the needs of the needs of the community by adding a child care center to the existing church facility.
Flexible schedules were incorporated to ensure community members were connected to other