Question

What are the key components of the punctuated-equilibrium model? How do group norms influence an individual's behavior and what are the strengths and weaknesses of group (versus individual) decision Making? Explain

Answer 1

" The Punctuated Equilibrium Model ( PEM ) is a social theory for understanding change in complex social systems, including in organisations ( Burnes,2009 )".

• Punctuated Equilibrium Model (PEM) is an important model of organisational change in which change is relatively stable but experiences short bursts of fundamental change. The concept explains the strengths and drawbacks of the model and uses illustrative case studies to highlight the usefulness of the PEM for explaining change.

■ Gersick presents three main components of a punctuated equilibrium model :

● Deep structure : The key concept of punctuated equilibrium theory is that of deep structure which consists of fundamental choices that a system makes of the basic parts into which the units will be organized and the basic activity patternexs that will maintain its existence.

● Equilibrium : Equilibrium is the state in which market supply and demand balance each other, and as a result, prices become stable. Generally, an over-supply of goods or services causes prices to go down, which results in higher demand. The balancing effect of supply and demand results in a state of equilibrium.

● Revolutionary periods: The punctuated equilibrium model of change " sees organisations as evolving through relatively long periods of stability (equilibrium periods) in their basic patterns of activity that are punctuated by relatively short bursts of fundamental change (revolutionary periods)".

■ Group norms affect by setting up the boundaries and the tone of the role of each individual within the group. In this way, statuses affect individual behaviour because statuses represent leverage within the organization; the more leverage someone has, the more influential their control.

● Strengths of Group Decision Making

1. Groups generate more complete information and knowledge.

2. By aggregating the resources of several individuals, groups bring more input into the decision process.

3. In addition to more input, groups can bring heterogeneity to the decision process. They offer increased diversity of views.

4. A group will almost always outperform even the best individual. So, groups generate higher quality decisions.

● Weaknesses of Group Decision Making

1. Group decisions are time-consuming.

2. Group decisions have conformity pressures in groups.

3. Group decision can be nominated by one or a few members.

4. Finally, group decisions suffer from ambiguous responsibility.