Organizational Behavior as a Way of
Thinking and Acting
• The Book and the course is about
understanding human Behavior in public
and nonprofit organizations
• This includes our individual behavior,
the behavior of others, the group, the
community, and society
Organizational Behavior
• Emphasizes human behavior and
individual values rather than
organizational structures and
organizational values
Organizational Behavior Levels of
Analysis
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Individual Behavior
Group Functioning
Organizational Operations
Community Considerations
Society
Organizational Behavior Levels of
Analysis
• Individual Behavior
– Problems with motivation
– Failure of employees to communicate with
the public
– Employees who fail to understand the
broader purpose of the organization—the
mission and values of the organization and
unit
Organizational Behavior Levels of
Analysis
• Group level
– Do existing groups function effectively?
– Do people feel like part of a team?
– Do team members understand group
process and have leadership skills
Organizational Behavior Levels of
Analysis
• Organization Level
– Does the organization have a structure to
accomplish its goals?
– Are management systems in place (e.g. goal
setting and performance appraisal).
– Is there a strategic plan?
– Are resources tracked and allocated to the areas
of highest need?
– Is organizational communication clear, policies
documented and disseminated?
– Is hiring and training adequate?
Organizational Behavior Levels of
Analysis
• Community and/or Society Level
– Is the organization receiving adequate
funding?
– Is their a relationship with key funding
representatives?
– How does society value the work of the
organization?
– How can it be demonstrated to the public
that important work is being done by the
organization?
Aspects of Individual and Group Behavior Related
to Organizations
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Motivating employees
Being and effective team member
Leading and inspiring others
Communicating effectively with others –
inside and outside of the organization
• Making effective decisions
• Using power and politics constructively
and ethically
Aspects of Individual and Group Behavior Related
to Organizations
• Creating and securing commitment to
shared values
• Managing conflict productively
• Using diversity to enhance
organizational performance
• Helping people become more innovative
and creative
What is the Starting Point?
Theory Vs. Behavior
Assumptions of Organizational
Behavior
• Human behavior is purposeful – goal
directed
• Human behavior is not random – it is
caused – reasons have reasons
• Behavior can be changed through
learning
• People should be valued
• Public service is about serving others