The influence of organizational and personal characteristics on community planning activity

The authors identify the influence of organizational and personal characteristics on the tendencies of community organizational workers in Israel to implement planning activities. The research examines these factors in relation to two planning styles, rational and organizational-political, and also distinguishes among factors influencing the tendency for implementation of each style. The principal findings indicate that the tendency of workers to implement rational activities is influenced by mechanical characteristics of the organization. On the other hand, the tendency of the workers to implement organizational-political activities is influenced significantly by organic characteristics--variety and conflict--with the organization. The frequency of use of both styles is influenced by professional education in community organization.