The Utility of a Model: An Application of the Global Matrix

Abstract

To what extent are conceptual models useful for describing how organizationsfunction? Utilizing an instrument based on the Global Matrix set forth by Bertram Gross, elementary school principals and teachers in a single state assessed the effectiveness of their systems. The results support the contention that the conceptual model on which the instrument was based does have applicability when applied to educational institutions. The data also provide support for the contention that the instrumentation discriminates between organizations. Further, the utility of the instrument, both theoretical and practical, is discussed.

Get full access to this article

View all access options for this article.

References

GOLDMAN, H., & COPLAN, B. The organizational status survey, 1972. Additional data can be obtained from the following: Goldman, H., & Coplan, B. Manualfor the organizational status survey. College Park: The University of Maryland, 1975; the instruments and the Manual can be obtained from the authors.

GOLDMAN, H., & COPLAN, B. Unpublished data, collected in 1973-1974.

GROSS, B. The managing of organizations. New York: The Free Press , 1964, Vols. I and II.

GROSS, B.

What are your organization's objectives?

Human Relations, 1965, 18, 195-216 .

LIKERT, R. The human organization. New York: McGraw-Hill , 1967.

LYONS, K. A comparison of perceptions about effectiveness of school buildings and school systems. Unpublished data, College of Education, University of Maryland, College Park, March, 1974.