1. The Professional Bureaucracy Stable & complex work, standardized behavior – simultaneous standardization and decentralization. Universities, hospitals, school systems, government agencies, & production firms
2. Each professional works independently at his task but closely with his clients. Teacher in a classroom (teachers with students) Doctors treating a patient (surgeon & anesthesiologist- together but independent) Policeman alone Case worker with citizen Counselor with student
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4. “Pigeonholing” linked by administration In the professional bureaucracy, clients are “pigeonholed” according to general criteria – leaving professionals the necessity to exercise expertise and judgment in performing their role. The bureaucracy is a series of decentralized linked pigeonholes. Combined – served – organized – coordinated by professional administrators. (House)
5. Strategy within the Professional Bureaucracy Each professional’s strategy somewhat similar - set by outside entities, associations, organizations - requirements, guidelines, regulations The administrator maintains - serves, supervises, directs, supports, facilitates, the success of these strategies – formulates, works, steers a strategy – “overall with coordination”. A complex & stable environment – democratic –simple – professionals control their work and decisions.
6. Attached & Free – best of both worlds? Autonomy – allows professionals to perfect their skills, free of interference – surgeons – artists – but…. Problems? Administrative solutions? Coordination between staff and professional – creates friction point Discretion - professionals vary in competence and conscientiousness Innovation – Inflexible structure leads to difficulty accommodating change or different approaches.
7. OUTSIDERS see problems – seek changes Outsiders seek change through external controls – standardization or direct supervision. - parental approach – imposing supervision - new laws, rules intended to achieve change by addressing specific items or standards. ● Results? (DOGS & CATS Sleeping together) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w91-GMc3j7I - dampened professional conscientiousness, baby out with bathwater, upset balance, increased bureaucracy, greater dissatisfaction, less innovation
8. Final Words Change…does not sweep in from …intent on …control. ….Change seeps in, by the slow process of changing the professionals…incrementalism. …may be best …to bring pressures on the …associations rather than on professional bureaucracies.
