- Decision-Making in Organizations
Definition: Decision-making is the process of selecting the best course of action from available alternatives to achieve organizational objectives.
Types of Decisions:
- Programmed Decisions – Routine and repetitive (e.g., leave approval)
- Non-programmed Decisions – Unique and unstructured (e.g., launching a new project)
Steps in Decision-Making:
- Identifying the problem
- Analyzing the problem
- Developing alternatives
- Evaluating alternatives
- Selecting the best alternative
- Implementing the decision
- Reviewing the decision
Techniques of Decision-Making:
- SWOT Analysis (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats)
- Cost-Benefit Analysis
- Decision Tree
- Brainstorming
Exam Point: Decision-making is a core managerial function and is closely linked with planning and problem-solving.
- Organizational Effectiveness
Definition: Organizational effectiveness refers to how well an organization achieves its goals using available resources efficiently and sustainably.
Approaches to Organizational Effectiveness:
- Goal Approach – Focus on achieving organizational objectives
- System Approach – Focus on resource utilization and process efficiency
- Strategic Constituencies Approach – Meeting needs of key stakeholders
- Balanced Scorecard Approach – Combining financial and non-financial metrics
- Exam Point: An effective organization aligns people, process, structure, and strategy.
- Organizational Climate
Definition: Organizational climate is the collective perception of the work environment by employees. It affects motivation, productivity, and morale.
Dimensions of Organizational Climate:
- Support (e.g., supervisory support)
- Recognition
- Trust
- Morale
- Conflict
- Standards
Types of Organizational Climate:
- Authoritarian – Strict control, low participation
- Participative – Open communication, involvement in decisions
- Innovative – Encourages creativity and change
- Exam Point: Positive climate leads to higher job satisfaction and performance.
- Organizational Development (OD)
Definition: Organizational Development is a planned and systematic approach to improve organizational effectiveness and health through interventions in processes, structure, and culture.
📌 OD Techniques / Interventions:
- Sensitivity Training (T-groups)
- Team Building
- Survey Feedback
- Process Consultation
- Intergroup Development
- Role Playing
Exam Point: OD promotes continuous improvement and change readiness.
Summary Table
Concept |
Focus |
Decision-Making |
Choosing best alternatives |
Organizational Effectiveness |
Achieving goals efficiently |
Organizational Climate |
Work environment perception by employees |
Organizational Development |
Planned change for improvement |
- Job Satisfaction
Definition: Job Satisfaction is the emotional response an employee has towards their job based on experiences, expectations, and workplace conditions.
📌 Key Thinkers:
- Herzberg (Two-Factor Theory):
- Hygiene Factors (e.g., salary, job security) – prevent dissatisfaction
- Motivators (e.g., achievement, recognition) – lead to satisfaction
Exam Point: High job satisfaction leads to positive organizational behavior and employee retention.
- Morale
Definition: Morale is the collective attitude, confidence, enthusiasm, and satisfaction of employees toward their work and organization.
Types of Morale:
- High Morale – Enthusiastic, cooperative, loyal employees
- Low Morale – Frustrated, indifferent, or rebellious behavior
Difference Between Job Satisfaction & Morale:
Basis |
Job Satisfaction |
Morale |
Focus |
Individual feelings about job |
Group attitude and team spirit |
Measured by |
Personal contentment |
Collective enthusiasm |
Influenced by |
Job role, rewards, expectations |
Leadership, culture, peer relations |
Outcome |
Motivation and retention |
Organizational harmony and productivity |
Exam Point: High morale enhances group performance, while high job satisfaction ensures individual commitment.