Question

(American Government)

What do you see as the biggest issue with bureaucracy, in its current form?

Answer 1

The entire bureaucratic structure is built by strict laws and guidelines. This excessive type of rigid structures is stamping on innovation and curbing production. There is still stubborn, inflexible and irreconcilable in all forms of officialdom. In addition, bureaucracy needs everyone to follow a given structure which reduces any innovation and out-of-the-box solutions chances.

Although bureaucracy appears to have a system for managing things, its byproducts make it all the harder to handle things quickly and efficiently. A hierarchical structure has lots of paperwork, reports, records and procedures. This makes dealing with customers or clients harder, more difficult and more troublesome. For instance, if a customer complains about a product or service, immediate restitution and action on his complaint is required. The user does not want to be trapped with filing processes, formal hierarchies and complex structures.

The bureaucratic system operates according to its configuration and defines the mechanics of officialdom, slowing down the decision-making processes significantly. Most frequently, bureaucracy fails to react promptly to the ever-changing competitive environment. It can not adapt as quickly as some of the other rivals can to market shifts, customer demands and demand-and-supply needs. That is one reason why in a bureaucratic environment we see needless delays. The world of today demands quick decisions and fast responses – something that bureaucracy will always struggle to accomplish.

Last but not least, restricting its workers' skills is one of bureaucracy's greatest disadvantages and problems. You have to realize that a hierarchical structure believes in strong departmentalisation and work segregation. Thus compartmentalization may offer some benefits but, on the other hand, it dramatically restricts employees' capacity and capabilities. The job compartiment does not require an employee to work outside of their assigned responsibilities. This not only limits the personal growth and motivation of the employee, but it also confines the overall productivity level of the organization.