This work offers a comprehensive and critical review and analysis of different approaches to work organization and their implications for the management process, the work of managers and managerial power and authority, within a coherent theoretical framework. This text covers the classical approaches of bureaucracy and rationalization/ scientific management, together with the more recent alternatives of decentralization through divisionalized, professional and adhocratic organization; despecialization through work redesign and participation; and cultural control through Japanese and clan forms of organization. For each of these, key principles and features are analyzed, central issues are addressed and the strengths and weaknesses of the approach are evaluated. This new edition has been updated to take account of recent contributions and developments in the topic areas and to include case studies and numerous small cases.