Bureaucracy Key Words

Weber’s Ideal Type

Theoretical model characterized by a hierarchical structure, clear division of labor, written rules, and impersonal relationships, designed to achieve efficiency and rationality

Hierarchy

Chain of command and power

Rules and Regulations

Emphasis on written policies, oftentimes getting in the way of emergencies

Specialization

Specification of organizations and their functions

Technical Competence

Workers are expected to be qualified for their jobs

Impersonality

Focus on the “group” over individualism

Red Tape

Overemphasis on procedure hinders effectiveness, making it inflexible

Bureaucratic Ritualism

Focus on rules and regulations rather than achieving organizational goals

Oligarchy

Concentration of power at the top

Japanese Model

A nicer view of bureaucracy that’s never existed

• group orientation (teams) over the individual

• lifetime job security

  • You’re good for life, man.

• emergence of work and private lives

• broad training, less specialization

• decision making based on consensus (lower consulted)

  • People care about your opinion

McDonaldization

the process here principles of fast-food restaurants is coming to dominate more sectors of society, making it the new standard.

• Efficiency

• Predictability

• Calculation

• Automation