Contemporary Organization. Organization reflects
You can see at a glance some of the obvious differences between contemporary and old-order organizations, two extremes on the management continuum.
A contemporary organization is flatter. Within it, interactions are more fluid. And it places a premium on feedback. More people report to any one manager, and there are fewer managers. Teams are common, and communication networks allow people to interact with each other quickly and easily. Let’s look at some of the characteristics of the contemporary organization in more detail.
Contemporary organizationAn organization that reflects current trends and applies up-to-date management principles and practices. It’s the “new” form of organization, as opposed to the “old order” of things.
Flattened
In recent years, many organizations have dismantled the old
hierarchical form. The multiple levels of a traditional structure
have been reduced and replaced with self-managed teams or
cross-functional work groups. The “chain of command” is neither
as long nor as rigid. Some of the traditional formalities
have dissolved, allowing interactions to occur on a more casual
basis.
As a former manager
in a highly hierarchical
corporation, I can remember
when you wouldn’t
think of addressing the
CEO in any way other
than “Mr. Karey” (“Sir”
was implied by a deferential
tone of voice). Now,
it’s not uncommon in
some companies to wave
at the CEO from across
the room and, with a tone
of good-friend familiarity,
shout out, “Hi, Joan!”
Even in the most contemporary organizations, there’s still such a thing as “corporate etiquette.” There are protocols and courtesies all employees are expected to observe. Many organizations, for example, still frown on going over the boss’s head. If you go over the boss’s head, you do so at your own risk. Know the “unwritten rules” and norms of acceptable conduct where you work.And let your employees know what they are, too, so they don’t inadvertently cross the line and commit a breach of etiquette.
Fluid
An old-order organization is like a skyscraper. Navigating through
its many levels can be time-consuming and tedious, especially
when you try to elevate an issue from the ground floor to the top.
In contrast, a contemporary organization is like a modern
two-story building. You can move between sections with
greater ease and speed. Since you don’t have to wend your
way though and wait for layers of approval, you can respond to
situations more rapidly. Often, you have greater access to
those “in the know.”
You can interact more readily, not only within your own team
or department, but across functional lines as well. A contemporary
organization allows and even encourages the flow of informal
communication between and among interdependent groups.
Because a contemporary form is more “open,” you have
more avenues for advancing your ideas and the ideas of
employees on your team. You also gain greater visibility for
yourself and for promotable personnel. Occasions that give you
visibility, such as meetings and presentations with executives,
are opportunities to showcase your relational skills.
