Agency segregation

Date and country of first publication

2006
United States

Definition

Agency segregation refers to the practice of separating employees or work responsibilities within an organization based on specific criteria such as job function, department, or division. This segregation can result in distinct units or agencies within the larger organization, each with its own set of responsibilities and authorities.

The purpose of agency segregation is often to achieve greater specialization, efficiency, and clarity in decision-making within the organization. By separating different functions or groups of employees into distinct agencies, it becomes easier to allocate resources, assign tasks, and ensure appropriate coordination within each unit.

For example, in a large government organization, agency segregation may involve creating separate agencies or departments for specific functions like finance, human resources, or public relations. Each agency would then have its own staff, budget, and decision-making authority, allowing for focused attention and expertise in addressing specific organizational needs.

However, agency segregation can also have drawbacks. It can lead to silos of information and communication breakdowns between different agencies, hindering collaboration and coordination across the organization. It may also create power imbalances or barriers to interdepartmental cooperation, as each agency may prioritize its own objectives over the overall goals of the organization.

To overcome these challenges, organizations often employ strategies such as cross-departmental committees or task forces to facilitate collaboration and information sharing. They may also implement performance metrics and incentives that emphasize the importance of cooperation and alignment towards common organizational goals.

Overall, agency segregation can be a useful organizational practice when done strategically and with clear communication channels between the segregated units. However, it is essential to balance the benefits of specialization and efficiency with the need for integration and collaboration across the organization.

Notes

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Agency segregation appears in the following literature

Kim C.-K. (2006). Minority employment in the largest U.S. municipal governments. International Journal of Public Administration, 29(4-6), 437-451. Taylor and Francis Inc..https://doi.org/10.1080/01900690500436784