Date of Award

1-1-2013

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Arts (MA)

Specialization

Communication and Leadership

School or Department

School of Leadership Studies

First Advisor

Dr. Heather Crandall

Second Advisor

Dr. Carolyn Cunningham

Abstract

This study analyzed the hierarchal structures and complex policies within a for-profit organization that contributed to creating a work environment with poor communication, specifically the effects on employees. Adaptive Structuration Theory provides a theoretical foundation for this study and discusses the creation of social systems through using rules and resources in interactions. The study did not intend to devise a clear solution to these pre-existing issues but rather shed light on the effects this type of problem has on communication between employees within an organization. A Likert Scale survey with 20 questions was distributed to 30 out of 50 employees within a for-profit organization. To provide further analysis, a face to face interview of three employees, one from each hierarchal level was conducted. The results of the survey revealed some policy and hierarchal structural issues within the organization that may be contributing to some vertical communication issues within the company while the interview supported the results of the survey. The organization would most likely benefit from making a few changes to its current policies and structure to enhance the flow of communication between employees.

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