The Public Administration Theory Primer

138

Organizations Are: Commentary

Simple

x

Complex

Classic Paradigm

Not a difficult call; the boundaries of a

classical bureaucracy are clear; so in fact are

the elements; operating efficiently and

effectively ought to be imagined as

the sum of its parts; one of its charms

is that it simplifies the operation of a

large, complex organization; bureaucracy

ideally achieves permanence and generality.

New Paradigm

Clearly the transitional paradigm has

introduced greater complexity to the field of

organizational studies. The boundaries of

classical bureaucracies were opened by

inquirers concerned with external constraints

and influences. The theorist of the individual

(expectancy, needs) introduced added critical

personal variables. Contingency theory and

bounded rationality strive to account for

complexity not found in Weberian models

but the limit has been nearly reached; the

model cannot stand added weight.

Hierarchic

x

Heterarchic Classic Paradigm

This characteristic is asserted axiomatically

in the Weberian paradigm; hierarchy is

essential and unchanging; rules are written

and binding; human action is oriented to a

hierarchy of functions; there are

commanders and commands, leaders and

followers.

New Paradigm

Little movement; the basic hierarchy is

essential and unchanging. The modifications

deal more with style and substance, e.g.,

recognition that slavish adherence to

hierarchal imperatives is ineffective,

emphasis on techniques of participatory

decision making and decentralization. The

bureaucratic paradigm can tolerate only

minimal manipulation of its concepts of

order.

TABLE 6.1 Profi les of New and Classic Organizational Paradigms