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Centralized Verses Decentralized: a Tale of Two Structures

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Centralized Verses Decentralized: A Tale of Two Structures
Leroy Dowdy
Walden University
Dr. Gayle Grant
08 April 2012
Centralized Verses Decentralized: A Tale of Two Structures The history of information technology (IT) has been well documented over the previous decades. The contributions of IT vary, but perhaps the most notable is the influence on organizational structuring. Prior to the information age, organizations predominately operated within a centralized structure (Mukherji, 2002). In a centralized structure, decision-making resided at senior levels and was executed within a formal structure. Conversely, a decentralized structure distributes decision-making in an informal environment. The centralized structure was effective, in part, due to decision-making authorities being reserved for upper management (Hitt & Brynjolfsson, 1997). The two case studies presented excellent examples of how organizational structure influences the use of IT. The use of social action theory to frame the research was insightful. Social action theory suggests that organization’s structures are based on traditions, policies, and habits, but may change if any of these factors are changed, replaced, or not acted upon (Giddens, 1984). This author will examine the challenges faced and the strategic responses implemented by both universities.
Challenges and Strategic Responses The maturation of IT made the handling, sorting, and storing of hard copy documents obsolete. The two universities were at a cross road with what direction to take their archiving efforts. The archives and record management offices recognized the need to embrace technology; however, there were no best practices for them to follow (Kahn, 2000). With the assistance of a national grant, Campus A conducted a records review to get a better understanding of the depth of their problem (Kahn,

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