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    Question

    William Ouchi’s Theory Z is often described as a

    hybrid model that attempts to integrate the strengths of Japanese Type J organizations with American Type A organizations. Which of the following best describes how Theory Z handles the conflict between individual accountability and collective decision-making?
    A It adopts the Type J model of entirely collective responsibility, where individuals are never singled out for failure, to maintain wa i.e harmony. Correct Answer Incorrect Answer
    B It maintains the Type A preference for individual responsibility, but ensures that the decision-making process leading up to the outcome is consensual and participative. Correct Answer Incorrect Answer
    C It utilizes explicit control mechanisms (formal rules and strict KPIs) to ensure that collective harmony does not result in a loss of individual productivity. Correct Answer Incorrect Answer
    D It advocates for specialised career paths to ensure that individual expertise remains the primary driver of decision-making power. Correct Answer Incorrect Answer
    E It rejects the concept of holistic concern for the employee in favor of a strictly transactional job-for-life contract to ensure loyalty. Correct Answer Incorrect Answer

    Solution

    William Ouchi’s Theory Z is a hybrid model that combines the consensual decision-making of Japanese organizations (Type J) with the individual accountability of American organizations (Type A). While the group works together to reach a consensus, the ultimate responsibility for the outcome remains with a specific individual, balancing social cohesion with performance tracking. 

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