James E. Rosenzweig

General Systems Theory: Applications for Organization and Management

General systems theory has been proposed as a basis for the unification of science. The open systems model has stimulated many new conceptualizations in organization theory and management practice....

General systems theory: applications for organization and management.

General systems theory has been proposed as a basis for the unification of science. The open systems model has stimulated many new conceptualizations in organization theory and management practice. However, experience in utilizing these concepts suggests many unresolved dilemmas. Contingency views represent a step toward less abstraction, more explicit patterns of relationships, and more applicable theory. Sophistication will come when we have a more complete understanding of organizations as total systems (configurations of subsystems) so that we can prescribe more appropriate organizational designs and managerial systems. Ultimately, organization theory should serve as the foundation for more effective management practice.

Professional Norms and Organizational Goals: An Illusory Dichotomy

Because managerial systems are usually designed for organizational goals, they may conflict with the professional norms of the scientists. This article sheds light on these questions: Does the managerial system of a given laboratory promote congruence between professional norms? Does this managerial system permit professional norms to exert significant influence on the perceived role performance of the scientist?

Interdisiplinary Programs in an University Setting

This paper focuses upon the organizational and administrative problems associated with interdisciplinary research programs—using an illustrative case, the Ceramic Materials Research Program at the University of Washington. The investigation suggests that there are many organizational constraints operating to forestall pure interdisciplinary research. During the early years of the research program there were numerous administrative and organizational difficulties. There was a learning-adapting process in the development of a viable program; however, an effective structure did evolve which provided for overlapping group membership on various committees which linked the participants together. A program-type organization was superimposed upon the existing university structure. The research findings suggest that interdisciplinary research often requires that a hybrid form of organization structure be developed to compensate for obstacles inherent in the university setting. A flexible “free-form” program struct...

Management and Accelerating Technology

The forces of advanced technologies and industrial complexity will continue, perhaps accelerate. The systems concept, which gives defense industry management a framework to integrate resulting complex activities will probably spread to other industries.

Weapon System Management and Organizational Relationships

Investigates problem areas involved in managing the procurement aspect of the national security program in the United States. Discussion on the weapon system management approach; Explanation on the...