OB Models and Approaches

Organizational Behavior reflects the behavior of the people and management all together, it is considered as field study not just a discipline. A discipline is an accepted science that is based upon theoretical foundation, whereas OB is an inter-disciplinary approach where knowledge from different disciplines like psychology, sociology, anthropology, etc. are included. It is used to solve organizational problems, especially those related to human beings.

There are four different types of models in OB. We will throw some light on each of these four models.

• Autocratic Model

The root level of this model is power with a managerial orientation of authority. The employees in this model are oriented towards obedience and discipline. They are dependent on their boss. The employee requirement that is met is subsistence. The performance result is less.

The major drawbacks of this model are people are easily frustrated, insecurity, dependency on the superiors, minimum performance because of minimum wage.

• Custodial Model

The root level of this model is economic resources with a managerial orientation of money. The employees in this model are oriented towards security and benefits provided to them. They are dependent on the organization. The employee requirement that is met is security.

This model is adapted by firms having high resources as the name suggest. It is dependent on economic resources. This approach directs to depend on firm rather than on manager or boss. They give passive cooperation as they are satisfied but not strongly encouraged.

• Supportive Model

The root level of this model is leadership with a managerial orientation of support. The employees in this model are oriented towards their job performance and participation. The employee requirement that is met is status and recognition. The performance result is awakened drives.

This model is dependent on leadership strive. It gives a climate to help employees grow and accomplish the job in the interest of the organization. Management job is to assist the employee’s job performance. Employees feel a sense of participation.

• Collegial Model

The root level of this model is partnership with a managerial orientation of teamwork. The employees in this model are oriented towards responsible behavior and self-discipline. The employee requirement that is met is self-actualization. The performance result is moderate zeal.

This is an extension of supportive model. The team work approach is adapted for this model. Self-discipline is maintained. Workers feel an obligation to uphold quality standard for the better image of the company. A sense of “accept” and “respect” is seen.

OD Approaches:

• Human Resources Approach:

Recognizes employees as a central organizational resource, emphasizing their development towards higher competency and fulfillment. Managers shift from controlling to supporting roles, fostering employee growth and performance.

• Contingency Approach:

Acknowledges that no single method or behavior is universally effective; what works in one situation may not in another. Managers analyze each situation to determine the most suitable approach for achieving organizational goals, promoting adaptability and situational awareness.

• Productivity Approach:

Focuses on optimizing organizational effectiveness through the efficient use of resources. Productivity, measured by output relative to input, encompasses economic, human, and social dimensions. Emphasizes how organizational behavior influences productivity and societal outcomes.

• Systems Approach:

Views organizations as unified systems composed of interconnected parts. Recognizes that actions in one part affect the entire organization. Encourages holistic management practices where every role contributes to organizational behavior, fostering a cohesive and purposeful organizational culture.

• Interdisciplinary Approach:

Integrates insights from psychology, sociology, and other disciplines to understand human behavior comprehensively. Recognizes the interdependence of these disciplines in shaping organizational dynamics and decision-making.