This practical text discusses the process of solving real problems in complex educational systems and introduces modern management concepts from the private, public, and educational sectors.

This text makes a practical link between social science theory and the practice of leading educational systems. Hanson facilitates understanding of how educational organizations function as learning and socio-political systems, and then provides conceptual and analytical tools to facilitate real-world problem solving. Social and behavioral science frameworks are used to identify and explain three widely held perspectives on the administration of educational organizations: (1) the school as a bureaucratic system, (2) the school as a social system, and (3) the school as an open system. Specific chapters are dedicated to key topics such as communication, leadership, management styles, motivation, organizational memory and learning, educational marketing, institution theory, schools of choice (e.g., charter, voucher, home schooling), and educational change.

Unlike many texts in the field, this one is neither obtuse nor boring to read. Its style and humor have always been a point of attraction for students.