Your Sets

Typical strategies 2 improve orgs:

1. Better management

2. Consultants

3. Gov policy + regulation

What is a frame?

Metaphor to describe how we perceive and therefore interpret reality

Frame examples

- Mental map (better the map, the easier it is to get around)

- Window (can only see certain things)

- Tool (effectiveness depends on choosing correct tool)

Theoretical Frame and what it can do

A set of theories that allow us to explain, predict & control behavior

- Used to understand and analyze situations

- Diagnose problems

- Formulate solutions

The four theoretical frames:

1. Structural

2. HR

3. Political

4. Symbolic

Structural frame, what it covers, physical example

- Alignment of organizational structure with goals and environment

- Covers goals, division of labor, formal relationships, hierarchy

- Machine: Consistency, routine, lots of moving parts

HR Frame, what it covers, example

- Fit between individual and organization

- Covers needs/motives, capacities/skills, feelings

- Family: less of a functional perspective but about dynamics + relationships

Political Frame, what it covers, example

- Getting and using power, managing conflict to get things done

- Interests, conflict, power, managing conflict to get things done

- Jungle: survival of the fittest, competition, power

Trad managerial thinking

- only see through 1 or 2 frames

- Solve problems w/ logic

- Seek certainty, control,

- Only 1 best way

Artistic Management thinking

- Holistic and multiframe

- Variety of solutions

- Creative + playful

- Flexible