Final answer:
Joan Woodward emphasized the significance of technology in informing organization design, advocating for structural adaptation in response to technological changes. This has prompted a shift from rigid hierarchies to more fluid, team-based organizational structures that leverage diverse skills and expertise to enhance productivity.
Step-by-step explanation:
Joan Woodward's idea in relation to organization design is focused on the importance of technology in design. Woodward's theory posits that the structure of an organization should be shaped by the type of technology employed, rather than organizational design being solely determined by the centralization of decision-making or social factors. In Woodward's view, as organizations integrate new technologies, it may lead to structural changes, including a shift towards team-based approaches, a reduction in hierarchical layers, and an emphasis on collaborative work processes.
Despite the recognition that bureaucracies with clear chains of command were effective during the Industrial Revolution, in today's information age, rigid adherence to such structures can decrease both productivity and efficiency. Modern organizational structures tend to delegate work to team-based structures, promoting diverse skills and expertise. This reflects a shift away from traditional hierarchical organizations and embodies a more flexible, responsive approach to management.