Organizational Structure Metaphors

Paper Summary:

This paper discusses various metaphors used in organizational structures. The paper explains the military or mechanical model metaphor and the organic or biological system metaphor. The paper also examines the cognitive system metaphor and the ecosystem metaphor. The paper presents a discussion as to how effective the metaphors are in enabling a greater understanding of organizational processes to be developed.

From the Paper:

"In today's hyper-competitive world, organizations struggle daily to garner and maintain valuable market share. Thanks to globalization, businesses are experiencing competition from all four corners of the globe. It is now common for competitors to operate in completely different environments, both internally and externally. Despite the increased opportunities offered by globalization, it becomes increasingly difficult for some companies to remain competitive. As such, aspects such as "superior/subordinate relationships, leadership, teamwork, motivation, and conflict management" (Norris, 2000, p. 105) become ever more important, and each of these hinges upon the organization's structure."

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