Impact and Influence of the United States Postal Services' use of Symbols

Impact and Influence of the United States Postal Services' use of Symbols

The United States Postal Services' (USPS) use of symbols has impacted and influenced the way that it is represented to the public. The first symbol of the USPS, the roman god Mercury, was utilized in 1782 by Ebenezer Hazard, the Postmaster General of that time period. Ebenezer used Mercury as his office seal. According to the USPS.com website, "Mercury's feet, helmet and staff had wings and he was encircled by an inscription which read, in Latin, 'Seal of the Office of the General Messenger'" (para. 5). In 1837, the USPS was given a new symbol of a man riding a horse by Amos Kendall, the Postmaster General during that time. The USPS.com website states, "Amos Kendall directed that the official seal of the Post Office Department portray a post horse in speed, with mail-bags and rider, encircled by the words 'Post Office Department, United States of America'" (para. 6). This symbol remained in affect until President Nixon took office in 1970 and turned the Post Office Department into the Postal Service. It was then that the symbol was changed to a bald eagle. The eagle still remains a part of the USPS' symbol, however, the eagle's face is white and attached to a blue background. 

Not only has the symbol of the postal service had an impact on its visual representation, but the elements of the stamp also play a big role in the use of the organization's symbols. Stamps are not only considered a form of payment in order to deliver the mail, but they also display several pieces of artwork and stories attached to them for the world to see. According to Habashi (2002), "Postage stamps have been used around the world to commemorate, in miniature, significant events and people, including those of importance in the history of metals and mineral production" (p. 10). Stamps have influenced different types of artwork that have included individuals, items and even places. Habashi (2002) states, "Postage stamps are a means of communication through which many countries have recorded important events, honored worthy individuals, and described interesting facts" (p. 11). Some of these important individuals on stamps include Elvis Presley, Lucille Ball and Mother Theresa.

References:

Habashi, Fathi. "Minerals, Metals & Materials Society." Postage stamps: A Convergence of metallurgy, art, and history 54.4 (2002): n. pag. FIU Online Library. Web. 2 Aug. 2013

USPS.com

Importance of Organization Theory and Behavior for Public Managers

Importance of Organization Theory and Behavior for Public Managers

Because diversity is common within organizations today, it is important to take into consideration that organization theory is apparent and public sector managers should utilize the necessary tools to enhance their work environment. According to Shafritz, Ott and Jang (2011) organization theory can be best described as, "how organizations and the people in them will behave in varying organizational structures, cultures and circumstances" (p. 1). Organizations, including the public sector, constantly experience growth and it is critical that public sector managers foster a work environment that establishes a sense of learning, teamwork and motivation. Jumara (2005) states, "Organizations must grasp the vital truth that the link between learning and continuous improvements is basic to the organization's future" (p. 2). For example, it is essential to cater to the wants and needs of employees while building strong relationships with them and communicating efficiently. A lack of learning structured communication can lead to potential issues such as organizational disparity.

In order for employees to develop professionally and personally, public sector managers should encourage a cohesive workplace and provide their support and understanding. Without continued support and flexibility, the workplace will suffer. Shafritz, Ott and Jang (2011) state, "Organizations must develop new kinds of flexibilities including more reliance on contigent workers, more loosely coupled and flexible connections among work units and divisions-some of which operate outside the formal boundaries of the organization over time" (p. 5). Change is inevitable and public sector managers should be prepared to handle it under any circumstance. According to Shafritz, Ott and Jang (2011), "Success now depends on how promptly organizations respond to rapdily changing environments, including fluctuating market demands, shifting customer needs and legislated changes" (p. 5). Not handling change in an efficient manner can lead to decreased employee morale and a loss of the employee to the organization altogether.



References:

Jumara, John. "A case study of the influence of organization theory on organizational change." FIU Online Library. N.p., n.d. Web. 30 July 2013 <http://ezproxy.fiu.edu/loginurl=http://search.proquest.com.ezproxy.fiu.edu/docview/305424985?accountid=10901>. 

Shafritz, J. M., Ott, J. S., & Jang, Y. S. (2011). Classics of Organization Theory (7 ed.). Boston: Wadsworth, Cengage Learning.