Communication 2nine2 Concept Analysis 3 Topics

Chapter 11, “Change”

1.       How is the current business trend of “change” different qualitatively from the more traditional; emphasis on “innovation”?

2.       How are the oppositional terms of “continuance,” “routine,” and “constancy/permanence” helpful in understanding the broader historical and social contexts for change?

3.       How is communication relevant to each step or phase in an organizational change process, from formulation to dissemination?

4.       What do we mean by the distinction between “first-order” and “second-order” changes (per Gregory Bateson)?  Offer an example of each from some organization with which you are familiar.

5.       Explain the differences between Richard Daft’s four types of changes, concerning: technology, administration, products, and human resources.

6.       Explain the contrast between programmed and adaptive implementation (of a change program)?

7.       In what ways is timing important in an organizational change program?

8.       How do the notions of acceptance, fidelity and uniformity contribute to the success of an organizational change program?

9.       How is Larkin and Larkin’s set of recommendations for communicating change to employees unorthodox?  Do you agree with their suggestions?  Why or why not?

10.   What are several different strategies for communicating change to various stakeholders?

11.   How is the idea of a “turbulent environment” used to justify various kinds of organizational changes?

12.   Why is it so difficult today for those who question or oppose organizational changes to have their voices heard?

Chapter 12, “Technology”

1. How is the historical idea of “technique” important to understanding the roles of technology in today’s society?
2. What is the perspective of “technological determinism” and how does it differ from the perspective on technology as a tool?
3. How are terms like the “Information Age” and “New Economy” both useful and misleading?
4. What are some key features or dimensions of new technologies that we need to understand?  Hint:  Consider how such things as speed and access can be used as criteria for evaluating new technologies, both before and after their adoption.
5. How does the concept of “critical mass” apply to new technologies and their adoption in organizations, communities, or societies?
6. How does media richness theory view different technologies in the workplace or the work context?
7. How does the social influence model treat technologies at work?
8. What are some of the key factors which determine whether a new technological innovation in an organization will be successful or not?
9. What do we mean by “first-level (order)” and “second-level (order)” effects of new technologies at work?
10. What does “hyperpersonal communication” mean in reference to e-mail use?
11. What are some advantages and limitations of e-commerce?
12. How can the Internet both enhance and hinder democratic participation—in organizations, communities, and nations?