Katrena Uelese -Org Comm. Ch 2 & Ch 3 Response

Ch 2.

This chapter discusses the four main approaches to organizational communication; Communication as information transfer, transactional process, strategic control, and a balance of creativity and constraint. The area of interest in this chapter was about interpretation of context. The book gave a great example about Laura, a manager, asking for a f/t accountant but later getting her appeal rejected by upper management. Laura's interpretation of the situation was that she needed help and asked for it, but upper management felt she could do it on her own. This is going on at my work right now, we need more staff for the busy day, but the Doctor feels we have handled the large load for so long that we can continue to do so and work harder if needed. In Laura's case, rumors started soon after and the interpretation of the situation took many turns. At my work this happens too; rumors spread and different versions are created because we all lack communication and clear understandings of our situation. Overall, this chapter was great in clarifying organizational communication and how context is very crucial during interpretation.

Ch 3.
Chapter 3 was very informative, but I found the discussion of Scientific Management most interesting. Our world is very industrialized and we are surrounded by businesses everywhere. The idea that management between a leader and their followers is a science with methods, rules, and principles. To stay organized and maintain efficiency we have this scientific management that helps us be organized. This issue deals with division of labor, which also plays off of hierarchy. At work everyone has a role, but they don't always stay that way. At my job, we all do everything and help every area of the office so we can function appropriately. However, it is very frustrating when our managers throw tasks to lower staff or designate duties to staff below them. I think scientific management should help to control the office and make sure everyone is equally participating, but as the book mentions, this does not always happen.