1. Explain the difference between a policy and a procedure
A policy is a set of broad guidelines to be followed by all employees while a procedure enables a policy to be put into practice. 2. Explain two reasons why organisations need to have policies in place
- To establish a framework for behaviour, decisions, and actions for all members of the workplace.
- To ensure that the daily actions of employees are consistent with the values, objectives, and strategies of the organisation. 3. Outline the six steps involved in setting a policy and explain why each is an important part of the process
- Research and analysis on the issue This is where an issue is identified and it is found out what employees in the workplace would like done about it.
- A policy is drafted and shown to stakeholders This step ensures that decisions can be made and confirmed about the new policy.
- A team is formed to write the new policy This is where the policy is formed and made to incorporate feedback from stakeholders.
- Feedback is received and the policy is revised. This step is important because this is where the policy may be changed to suit the needs of the business.
- The policy is presented to senior management for approval This is where the policy is reviewed for one last time before it is either approved or denied.
- The policy is distributed to all stakeholders and put into action The policy is distributed to the stakeholders and put into action throughout the organisation. 4. Explain two reasons why policies need to be constantly reviewed and updated
- The need to change a policy may originate from any stakeholders of the LSO at any time.
- There is a change in the law necessitating the policy to be updated. 5. Identify the five management styles – Autocratic, Persuasive, Consultative, Participative, and Laissez-faire. Then describe the communications flow, location of control, focus and decision making features of each of the above management styles
- Autocratic: An autocratic management style is one where the manager tells staff what decisions have been made.
Communication flow: Top-down
- Persuasive: A persuasive management style is one where the manager attempts to sell decisions made.
Communication flow: One-way
- Consultative: A consultative management style is one where the manager consults employees before making decisions.
Communication flow: Two-way
- Participative: A participative management style is one where the manager unites with staff to make a decision.
Communication flow: Flat
- Laissez-Faire: A laissez-faire management style is one where the employees assume total responsibility for, and control of, workplace operations.
Communication flow: Decentralised 6. Describe three advantages and three disadvantages of each management style
- Autocratic: Advantages: Directions and procedures are clearly defined.
Employees’ roles and expectations are set out plainly.
Control is centralised at top management level, so time is used efficiently.
Disadvantages: No employee input is allowed.
When no responsibility is given to lower level staff, job satisfaction decreases.
Conflict, or potential conflict increases.
- Persuasive: Advantages: Managers can gain some trust and support through persuasion.
Workers believing that their feelings are being considered may approach tasks, and the organisation more positively.
Instruction and explanations remain clear and constant.
Disadvantages: Attitudes and trust remain negative.
Communication is still poor and limited to top-bottom, one-way system.
Employees remain frustrated, because they are still denied full participation in the decision making process.
- Consultative: Advantages: Asking for suggestions from employees allows for a greater variety of ideas, and should improve the quality of management decisions.
Employees begin to have some ownership in the way in which the organisation is run.
When decisions are discussed and
