Robert Waterman's management theories began with Thomas Peters as they sought to integrate theory and practice. Many management theorists believed that adding parts of an organization would equal a whole organization, but Waterman and Peters knew a workplace needed interaction and synthesis to be successful - not mere addition. Since management theories have a huge impact on how managers manage, Waterman and Peters sought to integrate management theories and practice with human beings and organizations.

Peters and Waterman knew that common management theories played an important role in how anxious or afraid people were in their workplace. Therefore, they developed a self-analysis tool for corporations to assess their standing, which often decreased fear and anxiety because corporations were in much better shape than originally thought. Discover the impact this team of theorists had on the working population, and consider using the theory today, with the following information:

1. Understand organizational culture when studying common management theories.

2. The McKinsey 7S Model encompasses the management theory of Robert Waterman and Thomas Peters.

3. Peters and Waterman's theory observations developed foundational points for successful organizations.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Understand organizational culture to connect Thomas Peters and Robert Waterman's management theories

Thomas Peters and Robert Waterman noted that strong organizational cultures yield strong companies. Organizational culture develops from shared assumptions, beliefs and values exhibited explicitly and implicitly. For a strong culture to emerge, there must be alignment with the organization's strategic context and the ability to adapt to environmental changes.

I recommend: For details regarding culture and organizations check out Advameg. National Defense University provides an interesting dialogue on organizational culture concluding with a strategic success summary.

Examine the results of the Peters and Waterman theory

As consultants for McKinsey's New York corporate headquarters, Thomas Peters and Robert Waterman began studying structure and people, which led to the discovery of similar outlines for excellent Fortune 500 companies. With this information, they developed the McKinsey 7S Model to link strategy and organizational effectiveness; they effectively connected people, customers, and action as factors to study and develop.

I recommend: For a brief description of the McKinsey 7S Model, see provenmodels.com; the website also includes the pros and cons of the McKinsey 7S Model. Recklies Management Project provides descriptions of the "hard" and "soft" elements of the McKinsey 7S Model. Mind Tools provides detailed information and explanation about the McKinsey 7S Model, as well as how to use the model, specific questions to ask, and worksheets for downloading.

Learn lessons from successful organizations observed by Thomas Peters and Robert Waterman

Theorist Robert Waterman worked with Thomas Peters in the study and observation of successful organizations, and during their observations they compiled a list of eight attributes thought to propel organizations forward. The eight attributes included the importance of: purposeful action, partnerships, autonomy, productivity, values, skills, administrative structures and creativity. When integrated, these attributes have the power to lead organizations to success.

I recommend: The Association of Departments of English published a contemporary management article specific to the English department, and the author took time to review several management theories and describes the eight attributes of successful organizations in great detail. Case Studies provides detailed information about a company Peters and Waterman deemed "excellent."

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Know that theorists develop common management theories according to the era, and theories evolve and reflect current circumstances.
• •  Remember, flexibility is the key to success, so, just as Peters and Waterman theory suggests, pay attention to changing circumstances and adjust accordingly