Bureaucracy is a complex organizational structure found in government agencies, large corporations, and the military. Despite recognition of its negative impacts on initiative, risk-taking, and creativity, it continues to be prevalent. The advantages and disadvantages of bureaucratic organizations are explored and exemplified by companies such as Toyota, Johnson & Johnson, McDonald's, and Whirlpool. Bureaucracy is characterized by hierarchical systems and processes, and companies often fall into a cycle of implementing more bureaucracy to solve problems.