Bolman and Deal (2017) use the concept of frames to make sense of life at work (p. 43). The structural frame is the oldest and most prevalent way of thinking about an organization. Almost every organization has an organizational chart that reflects formal roles and responsibilities. Schools and districts are no exception. If structure is overlooked, an organization often misdirects energy and resources (Bolman & Deal, 2017).

Using the structural frame, analyze your workplace. What structural image/design predominates? How does the structure influence what happens as it relates to support or resistance to change? Does the structure seem to enhance or constrain organizational accomplishments? How are people grouped into working units? Are unit goals tied to the larger mission of the organization? How are individual and group efforts coordinated? How effective is the coordination? With which structural dilemma does the organization seem to struggle? What solution do you propose? How is your frame preference (as identified in the self-rating scale) reflected in the solution you propose?