Organizational Metaphors - 788 Words

Organizational Metaphors Maria F. Shoemaker South University April 19, 2012 Organizational Metaphors The two metaphors that I am about to describe to you are machines and organisms. I am also going to note what each metaphor suggests about how humans and their behavior are perceived in the organization. I will also let you know the similarities and differences in the two metaphors. Also conclude on how the ability to switch between metaphors might enhance effective leadership and organizational behavior. The machines one tends to think of inputs and outputs, standardization, productivity, measurement, and control. The organization tends to want the workers to just perform the mechanics of the job. They want them to not think†¦show more content†¦We must see that organizations exist in the socioeconomic environment the way fish exist in the ocean, and the way we exist in the physical environment. In knowing the similarities and differences in each metaphor, the manager of the organization will be able to use the organism in the area that it is needed the most and also use the machine in the area where it is needed the most. The organism can adapt to different environments and the machine can perform repetitively the same functions. The metaphors are most valuable in the organization once you train and coach ones employees, you will know which metaphor is best used within the organization. References Book Morgan, G. (2006). Images of organizations (3rd Ed.). Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage. Marshak, R. (1996) Metaphors in organizational settings: Impact and outcome. In D. Grant amp; C. Oswick (Eds.), Metaphor and organizations (pp. 147-165). London: Sage Yukl, G. (2006). Leadership in organizations. 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