Organizational Behavior as a Way of Thinking and Acting

• The Book and the course is about understanding human Behavior in public and nonprofit organizations

• This includes our individual behavior, the behavior of others, the group, the community, and society

Organizational Behavior

• Emphasizes human behavior and individual values rather than organizational structures and organizational values

Organizational Behavior Levels of Analysis

• Individual Behavior• Group Functioning• Organizational Operations• Community Considerations• Society

Organizational Behavior Levels of Analysis

• Individual Behavior– Problems with motivation– Failure of employees to communicate

with the public– Employees who fail to understand the

broader purpose of the organization—the mission and values of the organization and unit

Organizational Behavior Levels of Analysis

• Group level– Do existing groups function

effectively?– Do people feel like part of a team?– Do team members understand group

process and have leadership skills

Organizational Behavior Levels of Analysis

• Organization Level– Does the organization have a structure to

accomplish its goals?– Are management systems in place (e.g.

goal setting and performance appraisal).– Is there a strategic plan?– Are resources tracked and allocated to the

areas of highest need?– Is organizational communication clear,

policies documented and disseminated?– Is hiring and training adequate?

Organizational Behavior Levels of Analysis

• Community and/or Society Level– Is the organization receiving

adequate funding?– Is their a relationship with key funding

representatives?– How does society value the work of

the organization?– How can it be demonstrated to the

public that important work is being done by the organization?

Aspects of Individual and Group Behavior Related to Organizations

• Motivating employees• Being and effective team member• Leading and inspiring others• Communicating effectively with

others – inside and outside of the organization

• Making effective decisions• Using power and politics

constructively and ethically

Aspects of Individual and Group Behavior Related to Organizations

• Creating and securing commitment to shared values

• Managing conflict productively• Using diversity to enhance

organizational performance• Helping people become more

innovative and creative

What is the Starting Point?Theory Vs. Behavior

Assumptions of Organizational Behavior

• Human behavior is purposeful – goal directed

• Human behavior is not random – it is caused – reasons have reasons

• Behavior can be changed through learning

• People should be valued• Public service is about serving

others