Knowing why individuals act in a certain manner within an organization is important in developing good teams, enhancing productivity, and making employees satisfied. Organisational behaviour is the idea that comes in here. OB looks at the influence individuals, groups, and structures have on organisational behaviour.
The essence of organisational behaviour is the way it focuses on enhancing an organisation’s performance through the study of employee behaviour. Ranging from leadership patterns to communication styles, OB touches on many factors that impact workplace dynamics. In this book, we explore the scope of OB, main organisational behaviour models, highlighting their attributes, consequences, and how they impact workplaces.
What is the Meaning of Organisational Behaviour?
Prior to delving into the models, a definition of organisational behaviour is necessary. Organisational behaviour is the study of how individuals and groups behave in organisations. Organisational behaviour is an interdisciplinary field drawing on psychology, sociology, economics, and management.
The concept of organisational behaviour is not merely theoretical; it has practical implications that influence recruitment practices, staff training, motivation theories, and company culture. OB research is highly invested in by organisations in order to optimise performance as well as construct harmonious work cultures.
Scope of Organisational Behaviour
The scope of OB is wide ranging and encompasses topics like individual behavior, group dynamics, leadership, motivation, conflict resolution, and organizational culture. OB seeks to comprehend both the OB factors that impact employee behavior and how these factors of OB can be utilized for performance.
By knowing the parameters of OB, businesses can institute strategies that not only increase productivity but also make their employees better. From bettering job satisfaction to turnover reduction, models of OB give companies a map to follow to attain these objectives.
Major Factors of Organisational Behaviour
In order to better understand the various models, first we need to address the factors of OB that impact workplace behavior. These are:
- Individual Factors: Personality, perception, attitudes, and learning styles.
- Group Factors: Communication, team dynamics, leadership, and conflict.
- Organisational Factors: Culture, structure, policies, and environment.
Knowledge of these factors of OB will assist in choosing the most suitable model of organisational behaviour for a specific situation.
- Autocratic Model
The autocratic model assumes that employees require direction and are driven by fear and authority. It is characterized by formal hierarchy and centralized power, in which the manager is in full control.
Organisational behaviour concept here is anchored on obedience and discipline.
The role of OB in this case is narrow as it overlooks individual employee aspirations and needs.
Popular in military and traditional manufacturing environments.
- Custodial Model
In contrast to the autocratic model, the custodial model centers around financial resources. Employees are offered benefits like job security and monetary rewards.
It changes the definition of organizational behaviour towards employee security and fidelity.
OB factors highlighted here are financial motivation and support from the organization.
Prevalent in large-scale companies that provide lengthy employee benefits.
- Supportive Model
The supportive model places emphasis on motivation and leadership. Managers concentrate on assisting employees in order to enable them to attain their objectives.
- The theory of organisational behaviour in this context focuses on empowerment, communication, and leadership.
- The OB is more comprehensive, covering both organisational objectives and employee development.
- Successful in contemporary, team-oriented organisations where morale and motivation are essential.
- Collegial Model
In the collegial model, the company operates as a co-partnership between managers and employees. Everyone shares a common goal, and teamwork is the foundation.
- The definition of organizational behaviour becomes a synonym for teamwork and collective responsibility.
- OB factors such as cooperation, respect, and mutual trust are key to this model.
- Frequently used in knowledge firms and start-ups.
- System Model
The system model is the most contemporary method of studying organisational behaviour. It is a system that looks at the organisation as a whole system in which all the components influence the organisation as a whole.
- Organisational behaviour in this model involves lifelong learning, comprehensive development, and flexible thinking.
- OB now encompasses corporate social responsibility, environmental sustainability, and organisational learning.
- Ideal for innovative and adaptive organisations.
Selecting the Right Model
The best model varies depending on the goals, nature of the workforce, and philosophy of management of an organization. Organizations combine various models for complex needs. For instance, a company may apply a supportive model to its HR department and a system model to an innovation lab.
Knowing the scope of OB and the different factors of OB at play enables management to make adjustments and transform. The correct model can spur productivity, boost job satisfaction, and create a solid organisational culture.
Conclusion
The different models of organisational behaviour are guides to comprehend and control employee behavior. From autocratic to system-based models, they each provide something different about the meaning of organisational behaviour.
By understanding the notion of organisational behaviour and examining important OB factors, organisations are able to practice methods that not only fulfil business goals but also employee expectations. The future of work hangs in the balance depending on how well we know and practice these models in our day-to-day operations.
Regardless of whether you’re an HR manager, a team leader, or a business owner, learning these models can enable you to establish a successful, effective, and motivated workforce.
