When you see low morale or resistance, ask: Has the psychological contract been broken? Then explicitly renegotiate expectations.
: Bureaucratic and hierarchical, represented by a Greek temple. It relies on logic, rationality, and clear job descriptions. Stability and predictability are its main strengths. handy c. -1993- understanding organizations
By the end of the year, the "synergy" had settled into a shaky peace. Marcus still had his manuals, but he learned to keep a bottle of scotch for Sarah’s "Zeus" moments. Sarah learned that while Rick’s gut was great, Apollo’s pillars kept the roof from falling in. When you see low morale or resistance, ask:
By understanding these different components and types of organizations, managers and leaders can better navigate the complexities of organizational life and make more informed decisions. It relies on logic, rationality, and clear job descriptions
within it (e.g., a partnership of architects or lawyers). The individual is the central point. Key Themes & Frameworks
Dionysus (the god of the individual, wine, and the self). Structure: A small cluster or constellation. Dynamics: The individual is the ultimate unit. The organization exists to serve the person (e.g., a collective of lawyers, doctors, or consultants). Management is minimal. Handy’s Warning: Most commercial organizations cannot survive this culture because the collective refuses to be managed.
:Downstairs, the Finance team operates like a Greek temple dedicated to Apollo , the god of order. Their "pillars" are rigid job descriptions and strict procedures. They provide much-needed stability and predictability, ensuring the company doesn't go bankrupt. But when the market shifts suddenly, they struggle to adapt because "the manual doesn't say what to do next".