Organizations Rational, Natural, and Open Systems, A summary of Key Concepts

Prior to discussing boundary spanning it is useful to develop a common understanding of the terminology of boundary spanning activities. Unless noted otherwise, the usage is based on the book, Organizations Rational, Natural, and Open Systems (Scott, 2003). Scott’s approach to organizational theory attempts to integrate three systemic perspectives on organizational theory. He refers to these perspectives as rational, natural, and open systems.

The rational perspective is a focus on the normative structure of the organization. It stresses formal rules, organization, and roles as they relate to formally defined and developed organizational goals and objectives. Scott identifies four basic schools of rational thought:
• Taylor’s scientific management – Taylor was primarily concerned with the management of plants and production lines. His primary interests were in developing time and motion studies to improve productivity and efficiency. Taylor emphasized the ...