OGL 481 Pro-Seminar I:

PCA-Political Frame Worksheet

Worksheet Objectives:
1. Describe the political frame
2. Apply the political frame to your personal case situation

Complete the following making sure to support your ideas and cite from the textbook and other
course materials per APA guidelines. After the peer review, you have a chance to update this and
format for your Electronic Portfolio due in Module 6.

1) Briefly restate your situation from Module 1 and your role.

As previously mentioned, our most recent experience with the Navy-Marine Corps
integration presented significant challenges. Allocating material proved difficult as the
flying squadron had specific requirements for robust support, despite limited space on the
ship. Additionally, we also encountered difficulties with the ship's personnel, as our
training efforts did not yield the desired results, leading to frustration, inefficiencies, and
eventually, rework.

2) Describe how the politics of the organization influenced the situation.

I believe that the two primary challenges we encountered, resource allocation and lack of
support for our training, were influenced by distinct organizational politics.

Regarding resource allocation, internal politics within the organization impacted the
coordination and collaboration between different departments involved in the ship
integration. Competing interests, conflicting agendas, and interpersonal dynamics
hindered effective communication and coordination, resulting in difficulties during the
execution of logistics operations.

In terms of training, I believe that leadership's interpersonal dynamics influenced the

resistance and challenges we encountered. The decisions, priorities, and management
styles of the ship's leadership shaped the approach taken by the sailors aboard the ship in
addressing the issues faced during the integration. Their influence played a role in the
outcomes and feedback we received from our training efforts.

3) Recommend how you would use organizational politics for an alternative course of
action regarding your case.

1
 To effectively use organizational politics in this situation, I believe it is important to
understand the sources of power and influence within the organization. “Power in
organizations is basically the capacity to make things happen and affect outcome”
(Milner et al., 2020, as cited in Bolman & Deal, 2021, p. 194). We could have Identify
key individuals who hold significant power and have the ability to influence decision-
making processes related to the integration plan. Building positive relationships with
these individuals and aligning their interests with our objectives can help create a
supportive environment.

One approach could have used was highlight the benefits and positive outcomes that the
integration plan brings to the organization. Emphasize how the plan contributes to
improved aviation logistics and enhances support to the Aviation Combat Element. By
framing our interventions and suggestions as opportunities for growth and development,
we can position ourselves as allies who are invested in the success of the ship and its
personnel. Additionally, it is crucial to effectively communicate and disseminate
information about the integration plan. We should use various communication channels,
such as meetings, email, etc. to reach key stakeholders and gain their support.

4) Reflect on what you would do or not do differently given what you have learned
about this frame.

After learning about the political frame of organizational dynamics, I would handle the
situation differenctly. First, I would acknowledge and fully comprehend the existence and
influence of organizational politics within the challenges we were facing. By recognizing
the political landscape, I can navigate it more effectively and address the issues more
strategically.

To foster transparency and open communication, I would encourage frequent and honest
dialogue among ship’s personnel and my office. This would create opportunities to share
perspectives and address concerns. By promoting a culture of collaboration and
information sharing, we can overcome the barriers posed by organizational politics and
ensure that decisions are based on objective criteria rather than personal dynamics or
hidden agendas.

2
 Reference

Bolman, L. G., & Deal, T. E. (2021). Reframing Organizations: Artistry, Choice, and

Leadership. John Wiley & Sons.