ABSTRACT
The role of organizational theory in research and practical application has not been adequately defined. Organizations often oscillate from one trend to another in efforts to increase efficiency and effectiveness. One of the critical functions of an organization is manpower allocation—the distribution and utilization of its personnel throughout its organizational structure. Since 1946, when Congress passed the Foreign Service Act, numerous studies have focused on the Department of State. Statistical analysis has had a small role in studies regarding the Foreign Service. Organizational analysis is a field of inquiry incorporating many aspects of research on organizations and drawing upon the theory and conceptual tools of several disciplines. An organization can be evaluated and compared from the perspective of different groups or individuals. All frames of reference are arbitrary and each has its advantages and disadvantages. The chapter also presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in this book.
