zational structure emerged from the research performed for this study as the approach most likely to enable the organization to remain a major player in the data transfer (for data transfer is in essence what mailed printed matter is) and package delivery industries. Based upon the findings of this research, a conclusion was drawn that a team-based organizational structure should be implemented throughout the United States Postal Service over the 1996-1998 period. A further conclusion, also based on the research performed for this study, is that to the maximum extent feasible, the team-based organizational structure within United States Postal Service facilities should reflect the self-managing work team concept. A third conclusion is that a major reorientation of managerial thinking throughout the United States Postal Service will be required to assure the success of a team-based strategy within the organization.
Based on the findings of the research performed in the conduct of this study, and on the conclusions drawn from these findings, the policy recommendation for the Bentonville, Arkansas Post Office is that the self-managing work team concept is being applied widely in the private sector in the United States with great success. Implementation of this alternative will require additional initial funding for cross-training personnel. The probability of the attainment of all of the objectives for productivity improvement at the facility will be enhanced through the implementation of this policy.
This study addressed the effects of organizational structure on the efficiency of the United States Postal Service. Equally important in the context of organizational efficiency in the future for the United States Postal Service are technology changes associated with both information transfer and package delivery. Future research in these areas also was recommended.
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