Purchase Solution

Describe the power in an organization structure

Not what you're looking for?

Ask Custom Question

Describe the power of a group or individual within an organization using the three variables discussed in "A Strategic Contingencies Theory of Intra-organizational Power," by Hickson et al. in the 1971 Administrative Science Quarterly. Also, discuss any factors that limit the explanatory usefulness of the Hickson et al. article.

Purchase this Solution

Solution Summary

An individual develops organizational power when given control over significant resources in the organization. Power is allocated according to individual characteristics, value, and skills.

Solution Preview

According to Hickson et al. (1971), Intra-organizational power depends on three factors: problem skills, actor centrality and uniqueness of skill. If an individual has the skills and expertise to resolve important problems, then he or she is going to be in demand. Moreover, the law of supply and demand, that gives them the upper hand in negotiations. It also gives the individual power from the reciprocity created.

To further demonstrate intra-organizational power in the workplace, and to reflect on the ...

Solution provided by:
Education
  • MA, Capella University
  • BA, Empire State College, NY
  • MBA, Empire State College, NY.
  • PhD , Concordia University
Recent Feedback
  • "Thank you"
  • "Right on point and just in time thank you"
  • "Thank you."
  • "I was looking more into examples and words not just citations"
Purchase this Solution


Free BrainMass Quizzes
Social Media: Pinterest

This quiz introduces basic concepts of Pinterest social media

Operations Management

This quiz tests a student's knowledge about Operations Management

Production and cost theory

Understanding production and cost phenomena will permit firms to make wise decisions concerning output volume.

Paradigms and Frameworks of Management Research

This quiz evaluates your understanding of the paradigm-based and epistimological frameworks of research. It is intended for advanced students.

Organizational Behavior (OB)

The organizational behavior (OB) quiz will help you better understand organizational behavior through the lens of managers including workforce diversity.