What is a primary feature of McDonaldization in organizations?

The primary feature of McDonaldization in organizations is predictability and uniformity. McDonaldization, a term coined by sociologist George Ritzer, refers to the process by which the principles of the fast-food industry have come to dominate other sectors of society. This process emphasizes efficiency, calculability, predictability, and control.

Predictability ensures that the same product or service is delivered consistently across different locations and over time. This allows customers to know what they can expect, creating a sense of security and satisfaction in their experience. Uniformity creates a standardization that can simplify training for staff and reduce variability in quality, making operations easier to manage.

The other choices highlight aspects that are less characteristic of McDonaldization. Creativity and originality are not prioritized in a McDonaldized framework, as the emphasis is on standard processes rather than individualized approaches. Personal interaction and customization are minimized in favor of efficiency and consistency, contributing to a more impersonal service experience. High levels of environmental variability would contradict the very essence of McDonaldization, which seeks to control and minimize variability to enhance efficiency.