Question

What is your perspective on Weber's rather positive view of the bureaucratic administration? Why are bureaucracies so important yet so disliked?

Answer 1

Max Weber created the theory of bureaucratic management who consider this to be more rational and efficient for the organization.

The theory of bureaucratic management focus on three main principles. They are: -

• There exist a hierarchy of power among highest management. The structure is of pyramid shape, where the top of the organization is the president or the leader who controls all departments. Few high ranking managers has the power that they exercise to control the organization. The higher management controls the operation of the company effectively.
• A bureaucratic organization follows very strict procedures, policies and has very strict monitoring and control system. This type of organization show resistance to change and are more focused on following the same guidelines, principles, working style, etc. It operates in a very formal way and decisions are taken in an organized way.
• The division of labor is in-flexible and are assigned with clearly defined tasks and duties. Rules and responsibilities are clearly stated and followed by everyone.

My perspective on Weber's positive view of the bureaucratic administation is that rules and responsibilities are clearly stated and followed by everyone so employees will work as per rules and will focus on achieving the set target. The employee productivity is very good in this type of structure as the employees work efficiently.

The reason bureaucracies are disliked because employees cannot go extra mile and they need to work as per the rules. Career development opportunities are very less. Since this type of organization are resistant to change they don't support innovation. This type of organization are not employee friendly and employees get demotivated easily.