last updated 11/3/2016

Elements of Powers Systems

All can be used by the individual

1. Rule Systems - formal - connects power to the organization's structure and hierarchy 

2. Power Bases - connected to the person (e.g. expertise and interpersonal relations)  "Social Capital"

3. Power Bases - connected to resources (e.g. information access, rewards and punishments, coalitions

4. Cultural Elements - unobtrusive but connected to the organization’s interaction patterns, values,etc.

• Limits on procedures - Forums effect what can be done

• "Standard” ways of doing business limit what is thought or can be done; e.g. habits. 

• Limits on topics and reasons - i.e. argument forms

• Topoi

• Metaphors and language

• "Good” reasons

• Organizational goals and values

• Limits on information flow: privacy, secrecy, politeness

 

Power can be Overt or Unobtrusive

• Overt power can be seen and is normally used only when the system or person is threatened.  Weakness is usually involved.

• Unobtrusive power (norms ofpower use) is far more common and powerful, in part because is is not contested.

 

Gaining power is important for YOUR organizational success.