Framing is a way of understanding and communicating about a particular issue. As registrars, we operate in a highly complex world of varying demands. Organizational frameworks can assist us in understanding our various challenges, and organizing our thoughts and approaches to develop plans of action and solutions. Casey Bullock, Ph.D., Executive Director and University Registrar at Weber State joins the podcast to discuss the four main organizational frames and about how expanding our knowledge of different theories and frameworks makes us better registrars and better leaders. 

Key Takeaways: 

Bolman and Deal posit four key organizational frames: Structural, Human Resources, Political, and Symbolic; these frames can assist us in understanding organizational issues and help us to develop appropriate solutions.

Each of us probably already incorporate these frames into the way we approach a problem, but a more intentional approach that encompasses aspects of each frame would be beneficial; using a worksheet to practice addressing each frame is a good way to get started. 

Leadership styles are linked to the frames, and should be adjusted appropriately.

The greater the number of theories and perspectives that can be brought to bear on a situation, the greater specificity in the contours (see also: if you mush your face into one pin it won’t look like your face, but if you mush your face into a bunch of pins it looks more like your face).

References and Additional Reading:

Bolman, L. G., & Deal, T. E. (2017). Reframing organizations: Artistry, choice, and leadership (6th edition). Hoboken, NJ: John Wiley and Sons. 

Collins, J. C. (2001). Good to great: Why some companies make the leap ... and others don't. New York, NY: HarperBusiness.

Cowen, S., with Seifter, B. (2018). Winnebagos on Wednesday: How visionary leadership can transform higher education. Princeton, NJ: Princeton University Press.

Gladwell, M. (2006). Blink: The power of thinking without thinking.

Rivera, J.(Producer), & Docter, P. (Director). (2015). Inside Out [Motion Picture]. United States: Walt Disney Pictures; Pixar.

Miller (1979) The Practical Art of Using Theory 

Weick (1978) The Spines of Leaders_Leadership Where else can we go

Related AACRAO Core Competencies

Leadership & Management

Holistic & Systemic Thinking