MANAGEMENT THEORY AND ORGANIZATIONAL COMMUNICATION

To my entire friend, this topic discusses theories that provide the underpinnings for, and explain the evolution of, organizational communication. In my personal view, theories need not be abstract and valueless. Good theories must actually be practical. Classical theories suggest that downward communication of information about tasks and procedures is essential. The Hawthorne Studies claimed to demonstrate that communicating information about performance was important, upward networks were desired by employees and informal networks were inevitable. The successful implementation of human relations and human resource approaches requires the credible communication of information about job performance and recognition. Systems theories suggest that for organizations to thrive there must be communication that links departments to one another, communication that links the organizations to its external environment, effective communication of task and procedural messages, and effective communication of recognition and observation. Cultural theorists argue that culture is an important dimension of organizational success and that communication plays a vital role in the evolution of that culture. Critical theorists argue that communication can be used abusively to maintain power and disable organizational women and men. These theorists believe it is in the best interests of the organization and the individuals who work within them to become aware of oppressive practices and become liberated from them. Symbiotic applications of organizational theories can help persons understand the dimensions and applications of communication in organizations.