Organization Theory- R Ward 1

Running Head: WHAT IS AN ORGANIZATION?

What is an Organization?

Why Study Organization Theory: A Personal Perspective

Robyn Ward

Emporia State University

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What is an Organization?

Why Study Organization Theory: A Personal Perspective

In this essay I will define a personal meaning of organization and discuss reasons

for studying organization theory.

What is an Organization?

There are numerous definitions for describing what an organization is. I have

come to the conclusion that an organization is a coming together of individuals in a

formal way to accomplish related goals. In order to do this there must be an infrastructure

that facilitates the effective and efficient flow of communication, work and

understanding. A structure of an organization is influenced and built upon so many

factors including: internal and external environments, social and physical structures,

technology, and culture of the organization.

Why Study Organization Theory?

By studying the various theories within classic (pre-history), modernist, symbolic-

interpretive and postmodernist perspectives, I have come to the conclusion that in order

to study organization theory one must take a multi-disciplinary approach. Inspirations for

these theories have come from such disciplines as Economics, Sociology, Linguistics,

Anthropology, and the list goes on. According to Hatch (2006) her reason for studying

organization theory is to “broaden my perspective on organizations and the world in

general and open my mind to new ideas and possibilities for change and transformation.”

I would like to draw from her perspective. Organizations are constantly evolving in some

form or other because of outside and inside driving forces. They must change in order to

survive. Organization and management theory are important fields to study in order to
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analyze complicated/difficult situations and to have the means and tools by which one

can effectively deal with these difficult issues and situations. It is also important for

understanding how an organization works and how to diagnose its problems. Theory also

helps to develop, maintain, and change understandings of organizations and one’s own

role within that organization. It is important to consider that our post-industrial society is

organized around the creation of knowledge and the use of information. This driving

force has influenced organizations of all types to consider and use information to create

knowledge. This creation of knowledge and the access of information are key factors that

make up an organization structure today.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the definition of an organization is quite simple and

straightforward. But considering the theory, structure and influences on an organization,

an organization can become a very complex, evolving organism that takes work,

understanding and communication to make it succeed and thrive. Theory also allows for

individuals to realize their own roles, understandings and goals within an organization.