Influences on Structure

Week 13, Friday

Psychology 360
Outline
II. Sources of structural homgeneity
III. Isomorphic forces
IV. Impetus for change at Rolm-Haas
Sources of structural homogeneity
issue of homgeneity -- Why is there so little variation in the types of organizational forms?
organizations feel compelled to conform to traditional forms
institutional theory describes pressures toward conformity
Isomorphic forces
homogeneity is the result of isomorphic forces, or pressures for sameness
mimetic forces = assume a standard form by copying successful organizations
coercive forces = compelled to assume a standard form
normative forces = guided to a standard form by professionals
Impetus for change at Rolm-Haas
plant expands employee involvement in decision-making
change from mechanistic to organic structure
listen for justifications, try to identify:
mimetic reasons
coercive reasons
normative reasons
Copyright © 1996, The Regents of the University of Michigan, All rights reserved.
Revised - November 4, 1996