Handy C. -1993- Understanding Organizations ((top)) -

Handy also explores various organizational structures, including:

“Organizations are not buildings or charts. They are relationships.” handy c. -1993- understanding organizations

In conclusion, Charles Handy's "Understanding Organizations" (1993) is a seminal work that provides valuable insights into the complexities of organizational behavior. Handy's concepts, including the Five Gods of Management, organizational structures, and the nature of organizations, continue to influence management education, organizational development, and management practice. As organizations continue to evolve and face new challenges, Handy's work remains a vital resource for scholars, managers, and students seeking to understand and improve organizational performance. As organizations continue to evolve and face new

This is where Handy gets delightfully Machiavellian. He acknowledges that organizations are not rational—they are political arenas. People pursue their own interests. Resources are scarce. Therefore, understanding power is non-negotiable. People pursue their own interests

Centralized authority where power radiates from a central figure. It allows for rapid decision-making but relies heavily on the leader's capability. Apollo Greek Temple

Handy identifies seven sources of power in organizations:

If you work in HR, OD, or leadership and haven’t read Understanding Organizations – fix that.