Bureaucracy Theory

 Bureaucracy theory can be defined as the organizational structure with highly routine operating tasks performed under formalized rules and regulations assigned to various departments. It gives foundation to formal organization. Max Weber evolved bureaucratic theory in his work, "the theory of Social and Economic organizations."

Elements of Bureaucracy:

Hierarchy: There are managerial levels where each subordinate is supervised by his boss.

Division of Work: Total work is divided into specialized jobs. Each person's job is broken down into simple, routine and well-defined tasks.

Rules and Regulations: Organisations frame formal rules and regulations which all the employees have to conform while conducting tasks. They have to be applied in an impersonal manner.

Departmentalization: Similar tasks and activities are grouped into functional departments.

Narrow Span of Control: It states no single executive should have many subordinates under his guidance. This is due to the fact that he can supervise employees of his departments only. Narrower span leads to efficiency.

Records: Documents have to be kept for everything by maintaining files on a day-to-day basis. this helps in future reference of past work.

Impersonal Relationship: There is no place for personal emotions and favors. Rules are for everyone, be it a manager or clerk.

Administrative Class: There is a special class of officers, called bureaucrats who are selected on the basis of their competence and skills. They are trained and posted on senior positions.

Rationality: Judgments are made in a rational manner according to objective rules and regulations.