ABSTRACT
Competitive advantage describes a distinct advantage a firm has in the marketplace that enables it to add more value than its competitors. E. Mayo's approach to management and control highlighted the informal communication process within the structure of an organisation as a significant contributor in determining organisational behaviour. Beginning on the left-hand side of the uncertainty tolerance zone, leadership style developed from the belief that organisational processes should be steered by top management, who were thought better informed to do so. Scientific management developed from the philosophical roots of economics. An organisation's objective, in this case, is to manoeuvre in the marketplace so as to outdo the enemy, the competitor. Developing the notion of organisations as conflict arenas, growth in staff commitment and trust can only be achieved if the organisation's structure and style enables disparate views to be met fairly.
