Question

2. Be able to discuss fully the following theories and how these can be applied inHuman Behavior in Organization   .
a.Theory X and Y
b.Autocratic model
c.Custodial model
d.Supportive model
e.Collegial model

Answer 1

a. Theory X and Y. The two theories have different approaches of managing the employees. The theory X advocates that the employees by nature, are reluctant to work hard and need to be dealt with iron fist. There is no way that satisfactory work can be obtained without raprimand and close supervision on the employees throughout the job. Any leeway results in poor performance, and thereby it is essential to keep them on their toes. The theory X believes that the lower level employees follow instructions and are not capable or worthy of being consulted about the work by a manager at any time. Theory Y believes in collaboration and empowerment of employees. It advocates the need for motivation of employees to make them more engaged in the job. According to theory Y, the employees should be treated with respect, care and equality to obtain best performance from them. The style of management here, is participative.

b. Autocratic model involves a belief that Boss is always right. The model empowers the manager to hire, fire, promote or reward as per his /her will, and the subordinates are at his /her disposal. The absolute power of the boss can never be challenged and needs to be obeyed by subordinates in all circumstances. Even the wrong decisions are never to be questioned.

The model a and b are old time models which have been widely used until past few decades.They are losing relevance in the age of information technology where skill based economies find them obsolete, in the company needs to grow.

c.Custodial model takes into account the security needs of the employees. It makes them believe that they are under custody of the organisation and not their immediate senior. Their needs and requirements are taken care of by the employer in order to provide a sense of security for employees. It wants to give the employees  a message that their well being depends on the employer.However, besides inculcating this belief, the organisation does not provide any other motivation for hard work.

d.Supportive model relies on employee motivation, and believes that employees work and engage well when they are motivated, by intrinsic and extrinsic rewards, that, besides monetary rewards, include recognition, participaton and empowerment by the employer, which keeps the morale high and there is always a sense of ownership in the employee, which makes him /her help work hard.

e Collegial model is all about teamwork and an ability of the employees to see a big picture and work towards common good. In this model, employer and employees see each others as partner in accomplishment of goals. This model relates ot higher level needs of employees in Maslow's hierarchy, namely esteem and self actualisation. The biggest benefit is that employees rise above petty self interests and work towards a direction that is in best interests of organisation.

Models d and e are appropriate for modern day workplaces which are known to employ highly accomplished and rare human resources, which needs to be recognised, rewarded, regarded and retained.