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GSBS6090

The Politics of Management and Decision Making

10 Units 6000 Level Course

Not available in 2013

Previously offered in 2006, 2005, 2004

This course considers the political nature of management and decision making by examining the relationships among managers and between management and non-management employees. Concepts include personal and group power relationships, empowerment, dependency, mobilisation of bias, manipulation and ethics.

Objectives 1. Discuss and debate the nature of authority and the bases upon which it is accepted within organisations
2. Explain the various theories concerning political behaviour within organisations
3. To identify the types and sources of power available to the players
4. To relate power and political activity in organisations to the processes of decision-making and control
5. To explain the relationship between power and structure in organisations
Content Topics
1. Introduction - why study power in organisations
2. Stucture and power
3. Types and sources of power
4. Top down versus bottom up power in organisations
5. Strategic contingency theory
6. Power and middle managers in organisations
7. The decision process
8. Arena model of power
9. Power and innovation
10. Power and decision-making process
11. Intimidation rituals and hidden power
12. Control and ideology
13. External organisational relationships
Replacing Course(s) NA
Transition NA
Industrial Experience 0
Assumed Knowledge GSBS6020
Modes of Delivery Internal Mode
Teaching Methods Case Study
Problem Based Learning
Lecture
Experience Based Learning
Assessment Items
Examination: Open Book
Essays / Written Assignments 1500-2500words
Examination: Formal
Journal
Case Scenario/PBL exercises
Presentations - Group
Contact Hours Lecture: for 3 hour(s) per Week for Full Term