Abstract
Focused on communication departments in higher education, this article considers Theory Z as a framework for administrative management during periods of limited resources. It describes Theory Z as an approach grounded in participatory decision making, egalitarian relationships, delegation, shared philosophy, and attention to human resources. The discussion links these principles to communication administration by emphasizing consensus, quality circles, departmental self study, consumer definitions of program quality, and long range planning. It also addresses hiring, evaluation, rewards, recognition, and the influence of individual interests on departmental objectives. The article closes by discussing trust, subtlety, and intimacy as interpersonal foundations for management, suggesting that communication administrators can adapt Theory Z practices to strengthen cooperation, teamwork, and shared responsibility in academic departments. The focus remains professional rather than empirical, presenting principles and examples for departmental leadership.
Recommended Citation
Cureton, Judy and Cureton, Bob
(1983)
"Theory Z and Administrative Management,"
Association for Communication Administration Bulletin: Vol. 45, Article 8.
Available at:
https://stars.library.ucf.edu/aca/vol45/iss1/8
