WHO'S IN CHARGE AROUND HERE? ASHVILLE CASE STUDY

The essence of this case is the evaluation of the impact of organizational structure on the efficiency of small municipal governments. The methodology used is that of Organizational Analysis (OA), which is a type of internal business appraisal aimed at identifying areas of inefficiency and opportuni...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Authors: Newton, Stan, Borstorff, Patricia C
Format: Conference Proceeding
Language:English
Subjects:
Communication
Employee turnover
Fire departments
Fire stations
Fires
Interviews
Leadership
Mayors
Municipal government
Municipalities
Organizational change
Organizational structure
Political leadership
Responsibilities
Teaching aids & devices
Wages & salaries
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Summary:The essence of this case is the evaluation of the impact of organizational structure on the efficiency of small municipal governments. The methodology used is that of Organizational Analysis (OA), which is a type of internal business appraisal aimed at identifying areas of inefficiency and opportunities for streamlining and reorganization. In this case, it involves the evaluation of policies and procedures that are performed on an ongoing basis in a small southeastern city government. Often not being designed on an efficiency model, but a political one, these organizations atrophy as personnel and requirements change over time. The situation of being subject to political, verses professional, leadership presents a challenge to the gaining of and the continuance of proficiency. Organizational features such as span of control and departmental responsibilities become quite complicated as there is typically a lack of stability in the quality of leadership. With the ebb and flow of demands, due either to exponential growth or substantial decline in population and the tax base, comes the need to realign areas of responsibilities. When this need goes unrealized or neglected appropriate changes in response to new situations are not made in a timely manner. Issues that need addressing may include work flow evaluation, reassessment of assignment of responsibilities, number and quality of personnel, and the adequacy of infrastructure.
ISSN:1948-3198
1948-3198