R & D Department Case Study

Introduction

In this article, the purpose is to find out the most suitable management strategy of our R&D department to ensure scientists are working diligently on their projects. During this article, I will explain the difference between Bob and Teresa’s guiding beliefs, the influence of application those management strategies and bring up some motivation methods to scientists.

Principle Concept of Organic and Mechanistic Structure

Identify the guiding beliefs of Teresa and Bob is easier to evaluate and compare with their differences, pros and cons.

For Teresa's belief, she mentions that “breakthroughs and contribution to the society”, which is an organic structure. Burns, T. (1963). point out that “Organic structure is the most adaptive form

Moreover, R&D Department cannot know in advance how to accomplish the expected results because of the development of an invention and successful is uncertainty.

Compare the Application between Organic Structure and Mechanistic Structure in R&D Department

1. Performance in Dynamic Environment

Organic structure is higher flexibility than mechanistic structure. During the dynamic environment, the organic structure works best. Because of this structure can make the department to suit the changes and unpredictability in the environment as soon as possible. For example, the works are not rigid and can be changed as required.

On the other hand, the characteristics of mechanistic structure including fixed, inflexible and tightly controlled structure. So that there is no change in the working system and procedures, despite the change of social environment never stop. It is easy to see that the mechanistic structure cannot suit the changes and unpredictability in the dynamic environment as soon as possible.

2. Communication

For motivate the scientists, the organic structure also emphasizes on decentralized decision-making. It means the subordinates can suggestion their ideas in the decision-making process. We can listen to scientist’s comments, complaints and ideas to create a better working environment.

It is clear to see that adopt of organic organization structure is better than mechanistic organization structure under an R&D department.

Reference

1. Burns, T. (1963) “Mechanistic and organismic structures” In Pugh, D. S. (eds.) (2007) Organisation Theory: Selected Classic Readings. Penguin: Harmondsworth.

2. Daft, R. L. (2015) Organisation theory and design. 12th ed. Mason, Ohio: South-Western Cengage Learning.

3. Hodson, R. & Sullivan, T. (2012) The social organisation of work. 5th ed. Belmont, CA: Wadsworth.

4. Jones, G. (2013) Organisational theory, design, and change. 7th ed. Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson.

5. Champoux, J. E. (2011) Organizational Behavior: Integrating Individuals, Groups, and Organizations (4th ed.). New York: