Organizational Communication

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last updated 9/12/2007

THE HUMAN RELATIONS/ RESOURCES MODELS


The HR Models grow out of a reaction to the Classical model's over-emphasis on the elements of coordination and control in organizational life.  HR models focus on the needs of the individuals who make up organizations. 

(See the charts in OC, pp. 49 and 53)

Assumptions Common to Managers in Organizations Using the Human Relations Model:

  1. Employee satisfaction is the key to productivity and quality

  2. Open supportive communication enhances satisfaction

  3. Meeting the individual needs of employees is a key goal of management

  4. Managers need to pay close attention to building good relationships on the job

  5. Employees will be motivated to do good work if the work environment permits it.

Keys to Good Human Relations/Resources in the Organization

  1. Good Communication - redundancy, informal networks, few barriers
  2. Clear Performance Goals facilitated with feedback, quick and specific
  3. Meaningful Rewards linked to performance
  4. and a Culture (esp. at mid and upper levels) to support 1, 2, 3.

    Discussion Questions for Friday.

  • Do you believe HR improves productivity?  What elements of HR account for that?
  • What sorts of communication are improved in an HR managed organization?
  • What specfic features of HR are most useful to organizations?  to employees?  Why?
  • Make a list of effective communication practices that are associated with HR?  Why do they work well?