Explain participatory management

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

Participatory management is a management form that in a general sense entails allowing subordinates to participate in decision making and planning, particularly with regard to their own responsibilities and the operation of their own units. It focuses on the operation of each unit within the overall department. Participation is usually encouraged in matters that affect the officer's job performance. For example, participatory management for a patrol shift would occur when patrol commanders actively seek and utilize information from subordinates about problems and priorities. The commanders meet with their sergeants and officers to obtain information and identify problems and solutions. If changes can be instituted at that level, they are made. If changes cannot be made at that level, the commander may take the problem and suggested solutions to a higher level, a major or assistant chief. Officers would not directly participate at higher levels in the department but would provide some input to these levels since their immediate commanders would advocate their concerns and ideas.