A formal organization is an organization with a fixed set of rules of intra-organization procedures and structures. As such, it is usually set out in writing, with a language of rules that ostensibly leave little discretion for interpretation. Show
Sociologist Max Weber devised a model of formal organization known as the bureaucratic model that's based on the rationalization of activities through standards and procedures.[1] It is one of the most applied formal organization models. In some societies and in some organizations, such rules may be strictly followed; in others, they may be little more than an empty formalism.
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Distinction from informal organization[edit]Formal rules are often adapted to subjective interests—social structures within an enterprise and the personal goals, desires, sympathies and behaviors of the individual workers—so that the practical everyday life of an organization becomes informal. Practical experience shows no organization is ever completely rule-bound: instead, all real organizations represent some mix of formal and informal. Consequently, when attempting to legislate for an organization and to create a formal structure, it is necessary to recognize informal organization in order to create workable structures. However, informal organization can fail, or, if already set in order, can work against mismanagement.
The Hawthorne experiments[edit]The deviation from rule-making on a higher level was documented for the first time in the Hawthorne studies (1924–1932) and called informal organization. At first this discovery was dismissed as the product of avoidable errors, until it finally had to be recognized that these unwritten laws of work of everyday life often had more influence on the fate of the enterprise than those conceived on organizational charts of the executive level. Numerous empirical studies in sociological organization research followed, ever more clearly providing evidence for this, particularly during the human relations movement. It is important to analyze informal structures within an enterprise to make use of positive innovations, but also to be able to do away with bad habits that have developed over time. Reasons for informal organization[edit]There are many different reasons for informal organization:
Managerial organization theory often still regards informal organization as rather disturbing, but sometimes helpful. In the opinion of systems theory and cybernetics, however, formal organization fades into the background and only serves, if necessary, to supplement or to correct. Changes in structure always redevelop because of the conduct and differences among coworkers, and the ability of self-organization is recognized as a natural characteristic of a social system. References[edit]
This article originated as a translation of the corresponding article in the German-language Wikipedia. Retrieved November 21, 2004. That article gave the following references:
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What are the three types of formal organizations?The major types of formal organizations include those that are utilitarian, normative, and coercive.
What is a formal organizational structure?the official patterns of coordination and control, workflow, authority, and communication that channel the activity of members of an organization. The formal structure is embedded in the design of the organization and is seen as the pattern that should be followed by employees.
What are the goals of formal organization?The purpose of a formal organization is to ensure its survival. By organizing the company, leaders or owners expect the company or group to achieve its targets and objectives. Through this, they hope the organization becomes a success.
What is an example of a formal organization?Healthcare institutions, schools, business organizations, and churches are some of the common examples of formal organizations. Although formal organizations share basic characteristics, not all these formal organizations are similar. Generally, these can be categorized into coercive, normative, and utilitarian.
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